Lordsiva - Divine Lift Society PDF

LORD SIVA AND HIS WORSHIP
By
SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA
SERVE, LOVE, GIVE,

PURIFY, MEDITATE,
REALIZE
Sri Swami Sivananda So Says
Founder of Sri Swami Sivananda
The Divine Life Society
A DIVINE LIFE SOCIETY PUBLICATION

Eighth Edition: 1996
(Copies 3,000)
World Wide Web (WWW) Edition: 2000

WWW site: http://www.SivanandaDlshq.org/
This WWW reprint is for free distribution
© The Divine Life Trust Society
ISBN 81-7052-025-8
Published By
THE DIVINE LIFE SOCIETY
P.O. SHIVANANDANAGAR—249 192
Distt. Tehri-Garhwal, Uttar Pradesh,
Himalayas, India.

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7KH&RQVRUWRI8PD
*DXULRU3DUYDWL
7KH%HVWRZHURI(WHUQDO%OLVV
.QRZOHGJHDQG,PPRUWDOLW\

!
Blessed Aspirants,
Lord Siva is the God of Love. His Grace is boundless. He is the Saviour and Guru. He is the
Beloved of Uma. He is Satyam, Sivam, Subham, Sundaram, Kantam. He is the Supreme Light that
shines in your heart.
Meditate on His Form. Hear His Lilas. Repeat His Mantra ‘Om Namah Sivaya’. Study Siva
Purana. Do His worship daily. Behold Him in all names and forms. He will bless you with His
Vision.
Swami Sivananda
PUBLISHERS’ NOTE
This is a most valuable and instructive book for the aspirants, particularly for the devotees
of Lord Siva. It contains fifteen chapters. It is full of instructions on practical Sadhana for attaining
Siva-Tattva or God-realisation. The chapters will speak for themselves. The secrets of
Siva-Tandava, Sakti-Yoga, Siva-Tattva, etc., are very nicely presented. The translation of the Saiva
Upanishads is a beautiful addition. The lives of Siva Acharyas, the Bhaktas and the Nayanars are
inspiring and soul-stirring. A study of their lives will make one’s life sublime and holy.
Up to this time, there has been no such presentation on this subject. The philosophical
portion is highly illuminating and helpful to the readers. The book contains the essence of all Saiva
Puranas, such as Periya Puranam, Linga Puranam, Siva Parakrama and Tiruvilayadal Puranam. Its
value is enhanced by the addition of some important Siva-Stotras with English translation.
The book is written in a most lucid and clear style. It must be studied by all religious-minded
persons, as it is of solid worth from the spiritual point of view.
—THE DIVINE LIFE SOCIETY
iv
CONTENTS
PUBLISHERS’ NOTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Chapter I
SIVA MANTRAS AND STOTRAS
Siva Mantras . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Siva-Panchakshara-Stotram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Siva-Shadakshara-Stotram. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Linga-Ashtakam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Ardhanari-Natesvara-Stotram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Siva-Kavacham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Sarvalinga Stava . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Attributes Of Siva. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
The Sublime Vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Song of Lord Nataraja. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Glory of Lord Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Chapter II
SIVA TATTVA
Sadasiva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Ardhanarisvara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
World-Teacher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Pasupata Yoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Chapter III
THE SAIVA SIDDHANTA PHILOSOPHY
Siva And Tattvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Pati-Pasu-Pasa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Sadhana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Ashtamurti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Suddha Saiva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Chapter IV
PHILOSOPHY OF SYMBOLS
Philosophy Of Symbols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Snake On The Body Of Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Significance of Bhasma, Nandi, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Philosophy of Abhisheka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Fruit of Abhisheka and Rudra Japa in Siva’s Temple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Chapter V
PHILOSOPHY OF SIVA TANDAVA
Lord Nataraja—The Great Dancer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Dance of Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
v
Chapter VI
SAKTI YOGA PHILOSOPHY
Siva and Sakti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Siva and Parvati. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
The Divine Mother . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Sakti Energises the Trimurtis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Mother Ganga. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Tripura Rahasya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Kamakshi and the Dumb Poet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Hymn for Forgiveness to Mother . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Chapter VII
VIRASAIVISM AND KASHMIR SAIVISM
Virasaivism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Kashmir Saivism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Chapter VIII
LORD SIVA AND HIS LILAS
Tripurari . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Siva Jyoti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Nilakantha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Ravana And Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Hari and Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Brahma’s Boon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Birth of Subrahmanya. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Lord Siva and Daksha. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Dakshinamurti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Tripura Samhara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Lord Siva Curses and Pardons Nakirar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Know Your Guru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Lord Siva Drinks Poison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Lord Siva Rides on the Bull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Lord Siva Wears the Ganga on His Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Lord Siva’s Lila of Begging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Lord Siva Wears Trident, Deer, Etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Lord Siva Has Uma on His Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Lord Siva Wears Elephant’s Skin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Lord Siva the Fuel Seller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
The Twentyfive Lilas of Lord Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Chapter IX
SIVA YOGA SADHANA
Secret of Panchakshara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Meditation on Lord Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Worship of Siva. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Siva Manasa Puja . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
vi
Panchakshara Mantra Writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Siva Jnanam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Worship of Siva Linga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Siva Linga is Chinmaya. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Way to Attain Lord Siva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Greatness of the Prasad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Benefit of Pilgrimage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Benefits of Parikrama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Real Flower and Arati. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Chapter X
THE SAIVA UPANISHADS
Rudra of the Upanishads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Rudraksha Jabala Upanishad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Bhasma Jabala Upanishad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Tripura-Tapini-Upanishad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Rudra Upanishad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Chapter XI
THE SAIVA ACHARYAS
Appar or Tirunavukkarasar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Tirujnana Sambandhar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Sundaramurthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Manickavasagar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Tirumular . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Basavanna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Chapter XII
SIVA BHAKTAS
Saints and Sages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Markandeya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
The Story of Rishabha Yogi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Pushpadanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Kannappa Nayanar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Sirutonda Nayanar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Lord Siva’s Mother . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
The Sixty-Three Nayanar Saints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Chapter XIII
FESTIVALS
Lighting Festival at Arunachala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Vijaya Dasami . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Dassera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Vasanta Navaratri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Gauri Puja . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
vii
Chapter XIV
SIVA YOGA MALA
Books on Saivism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Chidambara Rahasya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Siva and Vishnu are One. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Sivaratri Mahima . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
The Twelve Jyotirlingas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Siva Nama Kirtan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
SIVA STOTRAS
Sivarchanam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Devyarchanam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Sivanirajanam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Sivadhyanavali . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Sivapushpanjali . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Sivamahminah Stotram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Sivastuti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Vedasara-Sivastava . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
viii
Chapter I
Siva Mantras
1. ! n:m:H eS:v:ay:
1. OM namaþ ÷ivàya
Om is Sat-Chit-Ananda Para-Brahman. ‘Namah Sivaya’ means ‘Prostration to Lord Siva.’

This is the five-lettered formula or the Panchakshara-Mantra of Lord Siva. This is a very powerful
Mantra which will bestow on the chanter the Highest Bliss of Existence.
2. ! t:tp:Ø,\:ay: ev:¼hð m:hadðv:ay: D:im:eh .

t:À:ð ,dÓH)c::ðdy:at:Î ..
2. OM tatpuruùàya vidmahe mahàdevàya dhãmahi |
tanno rudraþpracodayàt ||
We comprehend (realise) that Celebrated Supreme Being (Purusha), and meditate upon that
Great God, Mahadeva; may that Rudra impel us to do so. This is the Rudra Gayatri Mantra.
3. ! *y:öb:kö y:j:am:hð s:Øg:enD:ö p:ØeÄv:D:ün:ö .

uv:aü,kem:v: b:nD:n:anm:àty::ðm:Øüx:iy: m:|m:àt:at:Î ..
3. OM tryaübakaü yajàmahe sugandhiü puùñivardhanaü |
urvàrukamiva bandhanànmçtyormukùãya ma.amçtàt ||
I bow down to that three-eyed Lord Siva, who is full of sweet fragrance, who nourishes the
human beings. May He free me from the bondage of Samsara and death, just as a ripe cucumber
fruit is separated from the creeper. May I be fixed in Immortality! This is the Maha-Mrityunjaya
Mantra.
1
Siva-Panchakshara-Stotram
n:ag::ðndÓharay: e*:l::ðc:n:ay: B:sm:a¤rag:ay: m:hðÃ:ray: .

en:ty:ay: S:Ø¹ay: edg:mb:ray: t:sm:ò n:karay: n:m:H eS:v:ay: ..
nàgondrahàràya trilocanàya bhasmàïgaràgàya mahe÷varàya |
nityàya ÷uddhàya digambaràya tasmai nakàràya namaþ ÷ivàya ||
Salutations to the ashes-clad, three-eyed Lord, embodied as the first letter Na, who is pure,
nude and eternal and whose garland is the lord of serpents.
m:ndaeken:s:el:l:c:ndn:c:ec:üt:ay: n:ndiÃ:r)m:T:n:aT:m:hðÃ:ray: .
m:ndarp:Ø\p:b:hÚp:Ø\p:s:Øp:Üej:t:ay: t:sm:ò m:karay: n:m:H eS:v:ay: ..
mandàkinisalilacandanacarcitàya nandã÷varapramathanàthamahe÷varàya |
mandàrapuùpabahupuùpasupåjitàya tasmai makàràya namaþ ÷ivàya ||
I bow to Him, embodied as Makara, who is adorned with innumerable divine flowers as
Mandara and the like, who is the Sovereign King of the Pramatha Ganas and whose body is
anointed with the holy waters of the celestial Ganga.
eS:v:ay: g::òriv:dn:arev:nds:Üy:aüy: dx:aDv:rn:aS:kay: .

Â:in:il:kNYay: v:à\:Dv:j:ay: t:sm:ò eS:karay: n:m:H eS:v:ay: ..
÷ivàya gaurãvadanàravindasåryàya dakùàdhvaranà÷akàya |
÷rãnãlakaõñhàya vçùadhvajàya tasmai ÷ikàràya namaþ ÷ivàya ||
To the blue-necked Lord, embodied as the letter Si, the destroyer of Daksha’s sacrifice and
the resplendent Sun of Gauri’s lotus-face, whose banner bears the emblem of a bull, may our
salutations be.
v:es:ÄkÙmB::ð»v:g::òt:m:ay:üm:Øn:indÓdðv:aec:üt:S:ðK:ray: .
c:ndÓakýv:òÃ:an:rl::ðc:n:ay: t:sm:ò v:karay: n:m:H eS:v:ay: ..
vasiùñakumbhodbhavagautamàryamunãndradevàrcita÷ekharàya |
candràrkavai÷vànaralocanàya tasmai vakàràya namaþ ÷ivàya ||
2
I prostrate before the God of gods, embodied as Vakara, whose eyes are sun, moon and the
fire and whom the gods and the great sages like Vasishtha, Agastya and Gautama, ever pray and
Worship.
y:x:sv:-p:ay: j:XaD:ray: ep:n:akhst:ay: s:n:at:n:ay: .

edvy:ay: dðv:ay: edg:mb:ray: t:sm:ò y:karay: n:m:H eS:v:ay: ..
yakùasvaråpàya jañàdharàya pinàkahastàya sanàtanàya |
divyàya devàya digambaràya tasmai yakàràya namaþ ÷ivàya ||
Prostrations to that Ancient Naked God, embodied as the letter Ya, the Yaksha incarnate
whose hairs are long and matted and who holds Pinaka in His hand.
p:Wc:ax:rem:dö p:ØNy:ö y:H p:YðecCv:s:eÀD::ò .

eS:v:l::ðkm:v:apn::ðet: eS:v:ðn: s:h m::ðdt:ð ..
pa¤càkùaramidaü puõyaü yaþ pañhecchivasannidhau |
÷ivalokamavàpnoti ÷ivena saha modate ||
Whoever repeats this prayer, composed with the five holy letters before Lord Siva, attains
that supreme abode of His and enjoys there with Him in eternal bliss.
Siva-Shadakshara-Stotram
!karö eb:ndÙs:öy:ØVt:ö en:ty:ö Dy:ay:ent: y::ðeg:n:H .

kam:dö m::ðx:dö c:òv: !karay: n:m::ð n:m:H ..
OMkàraü bindusaüyuktaü nityaü dhyàyanti yoginaþ |
kàmadaü mokùadaü caiva OMkàràya namo namaþ ||
May our salutations ever be unto Omkara upon which the Yogins fix their minds constantly
in deep meditations and which satiates all desires and sanctions eternal salvation.
n:m:ent: m:Øn:y::ð dðv:a n:m:nty:ps:rs:aö g:N:aH .

n:ra n:m:ent: dðv:ðS:ö n:karay: n:m::ð n:m:H ..
namanti munayo devà namantyapsarasàü gaõàþ |
narà namanti deve÷aü nakàràya namo namaþ ||
3
The mortals and the sages, the gods and the bands of Apsaras bow to the Supreme Lord, who
embodied as Nakara, we salute again.
m:hadðv:ö m:hatm:an:ö m:haxy:an:p:ray:N:m:Î .

eS:v:m:ðkp:dö en:ty:ö eS:karay: n:m::ð n:m:H ..
mahàdevaü mahàtmànaü mahàkùyànaparàyaõam |
÷ivamekapadaü nityaü ÷ikàràya namo namaþ ||
To that Great Effulgent Being, embodied as Makara, who is the Transcendent Self, the
destroyer of multifarious sins and the Supreme Object of worship and meditation, we salute ever
and ever again.
eS:v:ö S:ant:ö j:g:ÀaT:ö l::ðkan:Øg:Òhkarkm:Î .

eS:v:m:ðkp:dö en:ty:ö eS:karay: n:m::ð n:m:H ..
÷ivaü ÷àntaü jagannàthaü lokànugrahakàrakam |
÷ivamekapadaü nityaü ÷ikàràya namo namaþ ||
To the all-auspicious and all-powerful Lord of the universe, embodied as the letter Si, who
bestows peace and prosperity upon the world and who is One and Eternal, may our salutations
always be.
v:ahn:ö v:à\:B::ð y:sy: v:as:ØekH kNYB:Ü\:N:m:Î .

v:am:ð S:eVt:D:rö dðv:ö v:karay: n:m::ð n:m:H ..
vàhanaü vçùabho yasya vàsukiþ kaõñhabhåùaõam |
vàme ÷aktidharaü devaü vakàràya namo namaþ ||
Who wears Sakti on the left hand and who has a bull to ride on and the serpent king Vasuki
to garland, to him embodied as Vakara we salute again and again.
y:*: y:*: esT:t::ð dðv:H s:v:üvy:ap:i m:hðÃ:rH .

y::ð g:Ø,H s:v:üdðv:an:aö y:karay: n:m::ð n:m:H ..
yatra yatra sthito devaþ sarvavyàpã mahe÷varaþ |
yo guruþ sarvadevànàü yakàràya namo namaþ ||
4
To the all-pervading Mahesvara, embodied as the letter Ya, God with a form and without,
who is the preceptor of the shining ones, wherever He may be, may our salutations be.
p:Wc:ax:rem:dö st::ð*:ö y:H p:YðecCv:s:eÀD::ò .

pa¤càkùaramidaü stotraü yaþ pañhecchivasannidhau |
Whoever repeats this prayer, composed with the five letters, ‘Namah Sivaya’ before Lord
Siva, enjoys Supreme Bliss in His Eternal Abode.
Linga-Ashtakam
b:ÒÉm:Øraers:Øraec:üt:el:¤ö en:m:ül:B:ae\:t:S::ðeB:t:el:¤m:Î .
j:nm:j:dÙHK:ev:n:aS:kel:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
brahmamuràrisuràrcitaliïgaü nirmalabhàùita÷obhitaliïgam |
janmajaduþkhavinà÷akaliïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
I bow before that Sadasivalinga, which is adored by Brahma, Vishnu and the other gods,
which is praised by pure and holy speeches and which destroys the cycle of births and deaths.
dðv:m:Øen:)v:raec:üt:el:¤ö kam:dhö k,N:akrel:¤m:Î .

rav:N:dp:üev:n:aS:n:el:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
devamunipravaràrcitaliïgaü kàmadahaü karuõàkaraliïgam |
ràvaõadarpavinà÷analiïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
I bow before that Sadasivalinga, the destroyer of Cupid, which the Devas and the sages
worship, which is infinitely compassionate and which subdued the pride of Ravana.
s:v:üs:Øg:enD:s:Øl:ðep:t:el:¤ö b:Øe¹ev:v:D:ün:karN:el:¤m:Î .
es:¹s:Øras:Ørv:endt:el:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
sarvasugandhisulepitaliïgaü buddhivivardhanakàraõaliïgam |
siddhasuràsuravanditaliïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
5
I bow before that Sadasivalinga, which is lavishly smeared with variegated perfumes and
scents, which elevates the power of thought and enkindles the light of discrimination, and which the
Siddhas, the Suras and the Asuras prostrate before.
kn:km:ham:eN:B:Üe\:t:el:¤ö PeN:p:et:v:ðeÄt:S::ðeB:t:el:¤m:Î .
dx:s:Øy:wev:n:aS:n:el:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
kanakamahàmaõibhåùitaliïgaü phaõipativeùñita÷obhitaliïgam |
dakùasuyaj¤avinà÷analiïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
I bow before that Sadasivalinga, the destroyer of Daksha’s sacrifice, which is decorated
with various ornaments, studded with different gems and rubies and which glows with the serpent
lord coiled around.
kÙ¢Ûm:c:ndn:l:ðep:t:el:¤ö p:¢j:hars:ØS::ðeB:t:el:¤m:Î .
s:eWc:t:p:ap:ev:n:aS:n:el:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
kuïkumacandanalepitaliïgaü païkajahàrasu÷obhitaliïgam |
sa¤citapàpavinà÷analiïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
I bow before that Sadasivalinga, which is smeared with saffron and sandal-paste, which is
fair with lotus-garlands, and which extirpates the multitude of all accumulated sins.
dðv:g:N:aec:üt:s:ðev:t:el:¤ö B:av:òB:üeVt:eB:rðv: c: el:¤m:Î .

edn:krk:ðeX)B:akrel:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
devagaõàrcitasevitaliïgaü bhàvairbhaktibhireva ca liïgam |
dinakarakoñiprabhàkaraliïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
I bow before that Sadasivalinga which is worshipped by the multitude of gods with genuine
thoughts full of faith and devotion and whose splendour is like that of million suns.
AÄdl::ðp:er v:ðeÄt:el:¤ö s:v:üs:m:Ø»v:karN:el:¤m:Î .

AÄderdÓev:n:aS:n:el:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
aùñadalopari veùñitaliïgaü sarvasamudbhavakàraõaliïgam |
aùñadaridravinà÷analiïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
6
I bow before that Sadasivalinga destructive of all poverty in its eight aspects, which is the
cause of all creation and which stands on the eight Dalas.
s:Ørg:Ø,s:Ørv:rp:Üej:t:el:¤ö s:Ørv:n:p:Ø\p:s:daec:üt:el:¤m:Î .
p:ratp:rö p:rm:atm:kel:¤ö t:t)N:m:aem: s:daeS:v:el:¤m:Î ..
suragurusuravarapåjitaliïgaü suravanapuùpasadàrcitaliïgam |
paràtparaü paramàtmakaliïgaü tatpraõamàmi sadà÷ivaliïgam ||
I bow before that Sadasivalinga which is the Transcendent Being and the Supreme Self,
worshipped by all Suras with their priest ahead, with innumerable flowers from the celestial
gardens.
el:¤aÅkem:dö p:ØNy:ö y:H p:YðecCv:s:eÀD::ò .

liïgàùñhakamidaü puõyaü yaþ pañhecchivasannidhau |
Whoever repeats these eight Slokas, praising Sivalinga in the presence of Lord Siva, attains
that Supreme Abode of Siva and enjoys there with Him everlasting Bliss and Beatitude.
Ardhanari-Natesvara-Stotram
c:aöp:ðy:g::òraD:üS:rirkay:ò kp:Üürg::òraD:üS:rirkay: .
D:emm:ll:kay:ò c: j:XaD:ray: n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 1..
càüpeyagauràrdha÷arãrakàyai karpåragauràrdha÷arãrakàya |
dhammillakàyai ca jañàdharàya namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 1 ||
To Her whose body shines as bright as polished gold, to Him whose body shines as brilliant
as white camphor, to Her with a fitting head-dress and to Him with matted locks, to Gauri and Lord
Siva may our prostrations be.
7
kst:ÜerkakÙökÙm:c:ec:üt:ay:ò ec:t:arj:p:ØWj:ev:c:ec:üt:ay: .
kát:sm:ray:ò ev:kát:sm:ray: n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 2..
kastårikàkuükumacarcitàyai citàrajapu¤javicarcitàya |
kçtasmaràyai vikçtasmaràya namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 2 ||
To Her of body smeared with musk and saffron, to Him of body smeared with ashes of the
crematorium, to Her who radiates love through Her beauty, to Him who destroyed the god of love
(Kamadeva), to Gauri and Lord Siva may our prostrations be.
c:l:tVv:N:tk¢N:n:Üp:Øray:ò em:l:tPN:aB:asv:rn:Üp:Øray: .
hðm:a¤dy:ò B:Øj:g:a¤day: n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 3..
calatkvaõatkaïkaõanåpuràyai milatphaõàbhàsvaranåpuràya |
hemàïgadayai bhujagàïgadàya namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 3 ||
To Her adorned with tinkling beautiful anklets, to Him adorned with snake-anklets circled
round His lotus-feet, to Her shining with golden bracelets, and to Him with snake-bracelets, to
Gauri and Lord Siva may our prostrations be.
ev:l::ðl:n:il::ðtp:l:l::ðc:n:ay:ò ev:kaes:p:¤ñ,hl::ðc:n:ay: .
s:m:ðx:N:ay:ò ev:\:m:ðx:N:ay: n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 4..
vilolanãlotpalalocanàyai vikàsipaïgeruhalocanàya |
samekùaõàyai viùamekùaõàya namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 4 ||
To Her with eyes as broad as the petals of the blue lotus (Nilotpala), to Him with eyes as
broad as the petals of the fully blossomed lotus, to Her with an even number of eyes (two), to Him
with an odd number of eyes (three), to Gauri and Lord Siva may our prostrations be.
m:ndarm:al:akel:t:al:kay:ò kp:al:m:al:ae¢t:knD:ray: .
edvy:amb:ray:ò c: edg:mb:ray: n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 5..
mandàramàlàkalitàlakàyai kapàlamàlàïkitakandharàya |
divyàmbaràyai ca digambaràya namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 5 ||
8
To Her whose hair is decorated with garlands of sweet-smelling divine flowers, to Him
whose neck is adorned with a garland of skulls, to Her decorated with excellent divine garments, to
Him clad with eight quarters, to Gauri and Lord Siva may our prostration be.
AmB::ðD:rSy:am:l:kÙnt:l:ay:ò t:eRt)B:at:am:Òj:XaD:ray: .
eg:riÃ:ray:ò en:eK:l:ðÃ:ray: n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 6..
ambhodhara÷yàmalakuntalàyai taóitprabhàtàmrajañàdharàya |
girã÷varàyai nikhile÷varàya namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 6 ||
To Her with hair as dark as the fresh rain clouds, to Him with matted hair resembling the
colour of lightning, to Her who is the Supreme Goddess of the Mountains (Himalayas), to Him who
is the Lord of the entire universe, to Gauri and Lord Siva may our prostrations be.
)p:Wc:s:à\®Ønm:ØK:l:asy:kay:ò s:m:st:s:öharkt:aNRv:ay: .
j:g:jj:n:ny:ò j:g:dðkep:*:ð n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 7..
prapa¤casçùñyunmukhalàsyakàyai samastasaühàrakatàõóavàya |
jagajjananyai jagadekapitre namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 7 ||
To Her whose dance marks the creation of the world, to Him whose dance indicates the total
destruction of everything in this world, to Her who is the World-Mother and to Him who is the
Father of this universe, to Gauri and Siva may our prostrations be.
)dipt:rtn::ðjjv:l:kÙNRl:ay:ò sPÙrnm:hap:Àg:B:Ü\:N:ay: .
eS:v:aenv:t:ay:ò c: eS:v:aenv:t:ay: n:m:H eS:v:ay:ò c: n:m:H eS:v:ay: .. 8..
pradãptaratnojjvalakuõóalàyai sphuranmahàpannagabhåùaõàya |
÷ivànvitàyai ca ÷ivànvitàya namaþ ÷ivàyai ca namaþ ÷ivàya || 8 ||
To Her with bright shining ear-rings of gems, to Him who wears the great serpent as
ornament, to Her who is ever united with Lord Siva, to Him who is ever in union with Gauri, to
Gauri and Lord Siva may our prostrations be.
Siva-Kavacham
Rishi Rishabha spoke to the prince:
Om! My Salutations unto Lord Neelakantha, the Beloved of Uma, the three-eyed and
thousand-armed Sambhu, who destroys the enemies by His mighty valour!
9
I now, for your good, reveal the supreme secret of all penances, possessing which you will
be ever successful, redeemed from all sins and pains.
After adoring the Omnipresent Lord, I declare the esoteric truth of Siva-Kavacha, for the
weal and welfare of the human beings.
Having seated himself in composure, in a sacred place, one should contemplate upon the
Imperishable Siva, with all his senses subdued and Pranas controlled.
He is to meditate upon the Subtle and Infinite, having installed Him in the lotus of the heart,
who is all-pervading and beyond the senses.
Having disentangled himself from the bond of actions, by constant meditation and merging
wholly in the Supreme Bliss, and with his heart ever intent on the Shadakshara, “Om Namah
Sivaya”, he is to protect himself thus wearing the armour of Siva (Siva-Kavacha).
May that Supreme Divinity raise me from the dark fathomless well of Samsara, and may His
glorious name destroy my sins in their totality.
May He render me free from all fears in all places, who exists in all forms, who is
all-blissful, who is smaller than the smallest and is possessed of Mighty Power.
May the eightfold form of Siva who supports the universe as earth, protect me from all
earthly ailments, and may He who gives life to humanity as water, remove all my fears from water.
May the Kala Rudra, who having burnt the worlds at the end of Kalpa, engages Himself in
Tandava rescue me from all troubles from wild conflagrations and wind.
May He, the four-headed Trinayana, who is resplendent like lightning and gold, look after
me in the East, and He who holds axe, Veda, hook, noose, trident and rosary in His hands, whose
colour is dark and glossy as the raining clouds, in the South.
I adore Him who is pure and spotless as jasmine, moon, conch and crystal, who bears the
Vedas and rosary in His hands, as the emblems of bestowing boons and fearlessness, for my safety
in the West; and Him who shines like the filament of a blossoming lotus, in the North.
May the five-faced Isvara, who is white and transparent as the crystal, who holds hook,
noose, hatchet, skull, drum and trident in His hands and also the Vedas and a rosary as the token of
security, protect me above.
I pray to Lord Chandramauli to take care of my head, Phalanetra to look after my forehead,
and Him, the destroyer of lust, for the protection of my eyes.
I worship Visvanatha, who is renowned in Vedas and who holds a skull in His hand to keep
my nose, ears and skull, safe and sound.
10
The five-faced Lord, whose tongue is the very Vedas, may protect my face and tongue; the
blue-necked One who holds Pinaka in His hands may protect my throat and my hands.
May the Lord, the destroyer of the sacrifice of Daksha, whose arms are the very
embodiment of Dharma, guard my chest and arms against all dangers and evils.
May my hip, waist, stomach, navel, be in the care of Dhurjati, the destroyer of Cupid, and
who holds the mountain as His bow.
I leave my thighs, knees and feet to His grace who is all graceful.
In the first watch of the day, may Mahesa be my protector; in the second, Vamadeva;
Trilochana in the third and Vrishaketu in the fourth.
Sasishekara may keep me from all the evils in the evening, Gangadhara during midnight,
Gauripati at dawn and Mrityunjaya at all times.
May Sankara be my protector when I am in, Sthanu, when I am out, Pasupati in the
intermediate region and Sadasiva in all places.
May He, who is known by the Vedas, be my saviour when sitting, the Lord of the Pramathas
while walking and the Sovereign Ruler of the universe while at rest.
May Nilakantha, the formidable foe of the three cities, dispel my fears and dangers while on
the way, and amidst impassable mountainous peaks and valleys.
May the All-powerful Almighty save me from the cruel clutches of the wild animals, while
journeying through thick forests.
I offer my hearty prayers to Lord Virabhadra who is as fierce as Yama at the end of Kalpa
and whose terrible laughter causes the worlds to tremble, for destroying my fears in crossing the
terrible ocean of formidable foes.
I worship the Lord, to destroy the fearful hosts of the enemy armies, arrayed against with the
four divisions, infantry, cavalry, chariots and elephants with the sharp and ferocious edge of his
sword.
May the blazing fire emitted by the trident of the Lord, reduce the desperadoes to ashes and
His bow, Pinaka, frighten the wild beasts such as tigers, lions and bears.
May He protect me from all evils arising from inauspicious dreams and omens, from all
mental and bodily agonies, and from all the calamities of different types.
I bow down to that Lord Sadasiva, who is that Supreme Truth, who is the very form of holy
hymns and sacred rites, who is beyond all knowledge and truth, who is the incarnation of Brahma
and Rudra, whose very eyes are the sun, moon and fire, who has a body smeared with white holy
11
ashes, who wears a crown and artless jewellery, studded with various gems and diamonds, who is
the creator, sustainer and destroyer of the whole universe, who destroyed Daksha’s sacrifice, who
kills the tide of time, who resides alone in Muladhara, who transcends the categories of knowledge,
upon whose head the holy Ganga makes her permanent abode, who is immanent in all beings, who
possesses the six qualities, who is the truth and essence of philosophy, who is the means to attain the
three Vargas (Dharma, Artha and Kama), who is the Lord of the worlds, who wears the eight
serpent-kings round His neck and who is the very form of Pranava.
I adore Him who is the embodiment of consciousness, whose form is of ether and the
directions, who wears the necklace of stars and planets, who is pure and spotless, who is the
preceptor of all the worlds, who is the Supreme Witness of the whole universe, who is the Supreme
Secret of all Vedas, who transcends all philosophy, who bestows boons upon all His devotees and
who showers mercy upon the poor and ignorant.
I pray to the all-merciful Lord who is ever pure and all-blissful, who is free from all lust,
greed and sorrow, who is bereft of all flaws and qualities, who is devoid of desire, disease, ego and
attachment, who is all-pervading, endless and eternal, who is beyond the chains of causes and
effects, in whom all pains and pleasures, pride, power and pomp, fears and dangers, sins and
sufferings sink and die.
I worship Him, who is the embodiment of Pure Consciousness, in whom doubts are dried
and actions cease, who is beyond all change, time and destruction, who is full, pure, mute and
eternal, who is Satchidananda (Existence-Absolute, Knowledge-Absolute and Bliss-Absolute),
who is the incommunicable place personified, who is all-effulgence and effulgence embodied, who
is the beneficent One, the radiant vision of Infinite Beauty and Beatitude. O my Lord! Victory on
Thee. Thou art the incarnation of Rudra, Raudra and Bhadra. Thou art that Mahabhairava,
Kalabhairava. Thy garlands are the necklaces of skulls and Thou holdest the divine weapons
Khatvanga, sword, skin (Charma), noose, hook, drum, trident, bow, arrow, club, Sakti (a weapon)
and the like in Thy hands. O thousand-faced God! Thou art fearful to look at with Thy terrible teeth
and Thy pealing laughter pierces through all the worlds. Serpents are Thy ear-rings, Thy garlands
and bracelets. Thou wearest elephant-skin on Thy body. Thou art the conqueror of death, the
destroyer of the three cities, O three-eyed God!
Thou art all-existent, Immanence of things, Essence of Peace, and the Supreme Bliss and
Silence, O Sambhu! Thou art verily the Brahman of Veda and Vedanta. Thou art all-pervading,
ancient and eternal. Save me, my Lord! Dispel my fears from unnatural death and dangers, destroy
my enemies, with Thy trident and chop them off with the edge of Thy sword. Frighten the bands of
Betala, Kushmanda and the like with the bow and arrows. Save me from falling into the pit of
fearful hell and render me free and fearless. Cover me with Thy armour and protect me always. I am
poor, meek, humble and helpless. I dedicate all at Thy feet and leave myself at Thy disposal. Thou
art my only prop and saviour. O Lord Sadasiva! Mrityunjaya! Tryambaka! Salutations to Thee
again and again.
Rishabha spoke: In this manner, I have unfolded the supreme secret of Siva-Kavacha which
grants every boon and gratifies all desires and which relieves one from all pains and sufferings.
12
Always, one clad in this (Armour of Siva), is free from all fears, all dangers and downfall,
by His divine Grace.
One, released from chronic diseases and premature death, enjoys long life and Eternal Bliss.
This Armour (of Siva) strikes at the root of evil and elevates one to the lofty heights of peace
and prosperity.
One, in the end, redeemed from all sins and obstacles, attains the blissful seat of salvation by
its mighty power.
Therefore my boy! Wear this presented by me with full faith, by which you will be very
happy.
Suta said: Having spoken thus, sage Rishabha gave the prince a big conch, a mighty sword
with which he would be able to conquer his enemies in no time.
Then he sprinkled some holy ashes on his body and gave the magnetic touch which rendered
him feel the strength of twelve thousand elephants.
Having obtained such strength, power and courage, the prince shone with the glory of the
autumn sun!
The Sage again told him: This sword given by me is purified by sacred Mantras, by whose
mere sight, the enemy will become lifeless. Death itself will be terrified and take to his heels.
Hearing the thundering sound of this conch, the enemies will fall down unconscious, with
their weapons cast aside.
These are the two instruments which will destroy the opposing armies and encourage your
own.
Clad in Siva’s Armour, you will destroy your enemies with these two divine weapons. You
will obtain your ancestral kingdom and become the sovereign ruler of this earth.
Consoling him thus, with all his blessings, the Sage after receiving due respects and
honours, departed.
Sarvalinga Stava
O Omkaresvara, Umamahesvara,
Ramesvara, Tryambakesvara,
Mahabalesvara, Mahakalesvara, Muktesvara,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Jambukesvara, Kalahastisvara,
13
Tarakesvara, Paramesvara,
Narmadesvara, Nagesvara, Nanjundesvara,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Ardhanarisvara, Kapalisvara,
Brihadisvara, Bhuvanesvara, Kumbhesvara,
Vriddhachalesvara, Ekambaresvara,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Kailasapate, Pasupate,
Gauripate, Parvatipate,
Umapate, Sivakamipate,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Visvesa, Tyagesa, Sarvesa,

Sundaresa, Mahesa, Jagadisa,
Ghusrunesa, Matribhutesa,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Kailasanatha, Kashinatha,
Kedaranatha, Muktinatha,
Amaranatha, Pasupatinatha,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Kasi Visvanatha, Kanchinatha,

Somanatha, Baijnatha, Vaidyanatha,
Tunganatha, Trilokinatha,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Kalabhairava, Tripurantaka,
Nilalohita, Haro Hara,
Siva, Sambho, Sankara, Sadasiva,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Mahadeva, Mahakala,
Nilakantha, Nataraja, Chandrasekhara,
Chidambaresa, Papavimochaka,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Halasyasundara, Minakshisundara,
Kalyanasundara, Kadambavanasundara,
Srisaila-vasa, Virabhadra,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Gauri Sankara, Gangadhara,

Dakshinamurte, Mrityunjaya,
14
Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya,

Om Namah Sivaya.
O Vaikkatappa, Tiruvoniappa,
Chittambala, Ponnambala,
Chitsabhesa, Chidambaresa,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Kamadahana, Brahmasiraschheda,
Kurma-Matsya-Varaha-Svarupa,
Virabhairava, Vrishabharudha,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Kalantaka, Mallikarjuna,
Arunachala, Nandivahana, Bhikshadana, Bhaktarakshaka,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Bhimasankara, Bhasmadhara,
Pannagabhushana, Pinakadhari,
Trilochana, Trisulapane,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Who can describe Thy glory O Hara!

Even Sruti says Neti Neti,
Thou art Supreme Brahman,
Thou art full of auspicious qualities,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Destroyer of Tripuras,
My silent adorations unto Thee,
Thou art Rudra, the destroyer,
Thou art bestower of Immortality,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Thy vehicle is the bull,

Tiger-skin is Thy garment,
Trident, Damaru, Axe, Are Thy instruments,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Snake is Thy ornament,

You are besmeared with ashes,
Ganga flows from Thy head,
Moon is Thy Chudamani,
Om Namah Sivaya.
You incarnated as Dakshinamurti,
15
To initiate Sanaka, Sanandana,

Into the mysteries of Brahma Jnana,
Through silence and Chinmudra,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Thy form speaks of renunciation,

Thou art embodiment of knowledge,
Thou art famous for Nritya,
Agada Bhum is Thy song,
Om Namah Sivaya.
You assumed the form of light,

Brahma and Vishnu failed
To measure Thee,
Thou art Infinity and Eternity,
Om Namah Sivaya.
You saved Markandeya, Manikkavasakar,

You blessed Kannappa, Tirunavukkarasu,
Tirujnanasambandhar, Sundarar,
Appar and Pattinathadiyar,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Thou art ocean of mercy,

Thou art giver of boons,
You blessed Arjuna and Bana,
You swallowed the poison,
And saved the world,
Om Namah Sivaya.
You destroyed the Cupid,

Thou art the Father
Of Ganesa and Subrahmanya,
You cut the head of proud Daksha,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Tripurasundari, Rajarajesvari,
Gauri, Chandi, Chamundi,
Durga, Annapurna,
Are Thy Saktis,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Thy garland is strung of skulls,

Thy matted lock is the abode for Ganga,
Thou dwellest in the cremation ground,
Thy form is terrible, Thou art Mahakala,
16
Thou art Death unto death itself,

Om Namah Sivaya.
Thou art the greatest Devotee of Hari,

Thou wearest in Thy head the Ganga,
Which flows from Hari’s feet,
You initiate the Rama Taraka Mantra at Banares,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Lord Rama worshipped Thee alone at Ramesvar,

You existed in sound as Sadasiva,
In the heart as Atmalinga,
In the Vedas as Pranava,
Om Namah Sivaya.
O Hara! O Lord! O Siva!

Prostrations unto Thee again and again,
Let me remember Thee always,
Let me ever dwell in Thee,
Om Namah Sivaya.
Make me desireless, fearless and ‘I’ less,

Let me ever repeat Thy five letters,
Let me behold Thee everywhere,
Let me merge in Thee for ever,
Om Namah Sivaya.
He who sings or repeats or hears this Sarvalinga Stava

Morning and evening with faith, devotion and Bhava,
Will be freed from all sins and diseases,
Will attain son, wealth, prosperity,
Bhakti, Bhukti, Mukti.
Attributes Of Siva
1. Advaita, Akhanda, Akarta, Abhokta,

Asanga, Asakta, Nirguna, Nirlipta,
Chidanandarupah Sivoham Sivoham.
Non-dual, indivisible, non-doer, non-enjoyer,
Unattached, without qualities,
I am Siva (auspiciousness), I am Siva of the form of knowledge and bliss.
2. Avyakta, Ananta, Amrita, Ananda,

Achala, Amala, Akshara, Avyaya,
Unmanifested, endless, immortal, bliss,
17
Immovable, without impurities, imperishable, inexhaustible,

I am Siva, I am Siva of the form of knowledge and bliss.
3. Asabda, Asparsa, Arupa, Agandha,

Aprana, Amana, Atindriya, Adrisya,
Soundless, touchless, smell-less, formless,
Without Prana, without mind, without senses, unseen,
4. Satyam, Sivam, Subham, Sundaram, Kantam,

Sat-chit-ananda, Sampurna, Sukha, Santam,
Truth, auspiciousness, good, beautiful, resplendent,
Existence-knowledge-bliss, all-full, pure happiness, peaceful.
5. Chetana, Chaitanya, Chidghana, Chinmaya,

Chidakasa, Chinmatra, Sanmantra, Tanmaya,
Consciousness, mass of knowledge, full of knowledge,
All-pervading like ether, consciousness alone, full of That,
6. Amala, Vimala, Nirmala, Achala,

Avangmanogochara, Akshara, Nischala,
Pure, stainless, immovable,
Beyond the reach of mind and speech, imperishable, steady,
7. Nitya, Nirupadhika, Niratisaya Ananda,

Nirakara, Hrimkara, Omkara, Kutastha,
Eternal, without attributes, supreme bliss,
Without form, Hrim and Om (Pranava), rock-seated Self,
8. Purna, Para Brahma, Prajnana Ananda,

Sakshi, Drashta, Turiya, Vijnana Ananda,
All-full, Paramatman, knowledge and bliss,
Witness, Seer, the fourth state, self-knowledge, bliss.
9. Satyam, Jnanam, Anantam, Anandam,
18
Sat-chit-ananda, Svayam Jyoti Prakasam,

Truth, knowledge, endless, bliss,
Existence-knowledge-bliss, self-luminous,
I am Siva I am Siva of the form of knowledge and bliss.
10. Kaivalya, Kevala, Kutastha, Brahma,

Suddha, Siddha, Buddha, Sat-chit-ananda,
Immortality, alone, changeless, Self
Pure, perfect, illumined, existence-knowledge-bliss,
11. Nirdosha, Nirmala, Vimala, Niranjana,

Nitya, Nirakara, Nirguna, Nirvikalpa,
Without defects, pure, spotless,
Eternal, formless, without qualities, superconsciousness,
12. Atman, Brahma Svarupa, Chaitanya-Purusha,

Tejomaya, Ananda, ‘Tat-Tvam-Asi’ Lakshya,
Self, Supreme Self, consciousness,
Full of light, bliss, that which is indicated by ‘Tat-Tvam-Asi—Thou art That’.
13. ‘Soham’, ‘Sivoham’, ‘Aham-Brahma-Asmi’ Mahavakya,

Suddha, Sat-chit-ananda, Purna Para Brahma,
‘I am He’, ‘I am Siva’, ‘I am Brahman’,
Pure, existence-knowledge-bliss, all-full Self,
The Sublime Vision
The adorable Lord of all bliss, all love, all mercy

The supreme light that shines in my heart
The Lord who fed Sambandhar and Appar
Him I saw at the abode of Rishis.
The Great Ancient, the Goal of Yogis

The Supreme Purusha that dwells in the Puri
The Adi Deva, whom the Vedas sing of
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The pillar of light which baffled Brahma and Vishnu

The ocean of mercy who saved Markandeya
The Lord of Madurai whom the Pandya beat
The supreme Teacher who taught the four

The Adi Deva who has assumed the five
Parama, Vyuha, Vibhava, Archa and Antaryamin,
The Lord who pervades the universe

The thread-soul, the Sutratman,
The over-soul, the purport of Srutis
Him I saw at the abode, of Rishis.
The effulgence who is above the Three

Who exists even after the Pralaya
Who saved Kannappa and Sundarar
He who drank the poison and saved the world,

He who danced at Chidambaram,
He who shines as the Jyotirlinga
He who brought the jackal-horses to Pandya

He who gave pearl-palanquin to Sambandhar
He who is the essence of Panchakshara
He who dwells in Banares and Vedas,

In Ramesvar, Arunachal and Kanchi,
In the hearts of all beings
He who pleaded on behalf of Darumi

He who dwells in Kailas with Uma
He who restored the eyesight of Sundarar
II
The Lord who gave stick to blind Appar

The Grace who begged alms for Sundarar
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The Marga Bandhu who showed the way to Appayya Dikshitar

The Mercy who took the message to Paravai

The Love who wrote the poem for Darumi
The Fire that burnt Nakirar
The Lord who became a cooly at Madurai

And carried earth for stopping the floods
For the sake of a little sweetmeat
The Lord who created tank and garden for the devotee
Who became the slave of His devotees
Who sent the pearl-palanquin to Sambandhar
The hunter who quarrelled with Arjuna

The untouchable who debated with Sankara
The groom who took the horses to Pandya
The Lord who has Uma as His left side

Who is also Narayana of the milk ocean
Who is the child sleeping on the banian leaf
The Lord who is the Holiest, the Oldest

Who is Jyoti within the Jyoti
Who is praised by the Devas and Rishis
He who is Ambalam in Chidambaram

Who is brilliance in Arunachalam
Who is the great thief hiding in forms
The Satguru who reveals in the Chidakasa

Who breaks all the three bonds
Who leads the aspirants to the land of Moksha
The Lord who dwells in the Sahasrara

Who is the way, the goal and the centre,
Who is the truth in the Mahavakya
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Song of Lord Nataraja
Sivaya Nama Om Sivaya Namah,

Sivaya Nama Om Namah Sivaya,
O Lord Nataraja of Chidambaram,

King Dancer of Thillai Ambalam,
Beloved consort of Sivakami Sundari,
Bhuvanesvari, Rajarajesvari,
Destroyer of sin, bestower of prosperity,
Remover of suffering, giver of Immortality,
Sivaya Nama Om Namah Sivaya.
Holder of Trident, drinker of poison,

Master of Yogis, ruler in the Sun,
Dweller in Kailas, rider of Nandi
Destroyer of Cupid, Lord of Siddhi,
The three-eyed Lord, the five-faced God,
The blue-necked God, the God of gods,
Thou art my Guru and sole-refuge,

Salutations unto Thee O Lord of Mercy,
Bless me with Thy shower of Grace,
Let me behold Thy benign face,
Let me merge in Thee for ever,
This is my real fervent prayer.
Glory of Lord Siva
Om. I bow with folded hands to Lord Siva, who is the Lord of the universe (Jagat-Pati),
world’s Teacher (Jagad-Guru), who is the destroyer of Tripuras (three cities—egoism, lust and
anger), who is the Lord of Uma (Uma Sankar), Gauri (Gauri Sankar), Ganga (Ganga Sankar), who
is full of light (Jyotirmaya), knowledge and bliss (Chidanandamaya), who is the Lord of Yogins
(Yogesvara), who is the storehouse of knowledge and who is known by various names as
Mahadeva, Sankara, Hara, Sambhu, Sadasiva, Rudra, Sulapani, Bhairava, Uma Mahesvara,
Nilakantha, Trilochana (the three-eyed), Tryambaka (the three-eyed), Visvanatha,
Chandrasekhara, Ardhanarisvara, Mahesvara, Nila-lohita, Parama Siva, Digambara,
Dakshinamurti, etc.
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How merciful He is! How loving and kind He is! He even wears the skulls of His devotees
as a garland around His neck. He is an embodiment of renunciation, mercy, love and wisdom. It is a
mistake to say that He is the destroyer. Lord Siva in reality is the regenerator. Whenever one’s
physical body becomes unfit for further evolution in this birth either by disease, old age or other
causes, He at once removes this rotten physical sheath and gives a new, healthy, vigorous body for
further quick evolution. He wants to take all His children to His lotus-feet quickly. He desires to
give them His glorious ‘Siva-Pada’. It is easier to please Siva than Hari. A little Prem and devotion,
a little chanting of His Panchakshara is quite sufficient to infuse delight in Siva. He gives boons to
His devotees quite readily. How large is His heart! He gave Pasupatastra to Arjuna without
difficulty for his little penance. He gave a precious boon to Bhasmasura. In Kalahasti near Tirupati,
He gave Darsan to Kannappanayanar, the devoted hunter who plucked his two eyes to replace the
weeping eyes in the Murti. In Chidambaram even the untouchable Pariah saint, Nandan had Darsan
of Lord Siva. He ran with tremendous speed to make the boy Markandeya immortal, when he was in
the clutches of the God of Death—Yama. Ravana of Lanka pleased Siva with his Sama chantings.
He initiated the four virgin youths Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana and Sanatkumara into the
mysteries of Jnana in the form of Guru Dakshinamurti. In Madurai, in Southern India, Sundaresvara
(Lord Siva) assumed the form of a boy and carried earth on His head for a devoted lady for the sake
of Puttu (a kind of sweetmeat) as wages, when an anicut was erected in the Vaigai river. Look at the
unbounded mercy for His devotees! When Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu went to find out the head
and feet of Lord Siva, He assumed an infinite, expansive blaze of light (Jyotirmaya-Svarupa). They
were baffled in their attempts. How magnanimous and self-effulgent He is! He lived in the house of
Pattinattu Swami in Southern India for several years, as his adopted son and disappeared after
giving him the small note: “Even a broken needle will not follow you after your death”. The reading
of this note was the starting point for attainment of Jnana for Pattinattu Swami. Why not you
attempt this very second with sincerity to realise God (Lord Siva)?
Hatha Yogins awaken the Kundalini Sakti that is lying dormant in the Muladhara Chakra by
Asana, Pranayama, Kumbhaka, Mudra and Bandha, take it above through different Chakras
(centres of spiritual energy)—Svadhishthana, Manipura, Anahata, Visuddha and Ajna—and join it
with Lord Siva at the Sahasrara, the thousand-petalled lotus at the crown of the head. They drink the
nectar of Immortality (Siva-Jnana-Amritam). This is termed Amritasrava. When the Sakti is united
with Siva, full illumination comes for the Yogi.
Lord Siva represents the destructive aspect of Brahman. That portion of Brahman that is
enveloped by Tamo-Guna-Pradhana-Maya is Lord Siva who is the all-pervading Isvara and who
also dwells in Mount Kailas. He is the Bhandar or storehouse of Wisdom. Siva minus Parvati, Kali
or Durga is pure Nirguna Brahman. With Maya (Parvati) He becomes the Saguna Brahman for the
purpose of pious devotion of His devotees. Devotees of Rama must worship Lord Siva also. Rama
Himself worshipped Lord Siva at the famous Ramesvaram. Lord Siva is the Lord of Ascetics and
Lord of Yogins robed in space (Digambara).
His Trisul (trident) that is held in His right hand represents the three Gunas—Sattva, Rajas
and Tamas. That is the emblem of sovereignty. He rules the world through these three Gunas. The
Damaru in His left hand represents the Sabda Brahman, It represents OM from which all languages
are formed. It is He who formed the Sanskrit language out of the Damaru sound.
23
The wearing of the crescent moon on His head indicates that He has controlled the mind
perfectly. The flow of the Ganga represents the nectar of immortality. Elephant represents
symbolically the Vritti, pride. Wearing the skin of the elephant denotes that He has controlled pride.
Tiger represents lust. His sitting on the tiger’s skin indicates that He has conquered lust. His holding
deer on one hand indicates that He has removed the Chanchalata (tossing) of the mind. Deer jumps
from one place to another swiftly. The mind also jumps from one object to another. His wearing of
serpents around the neck denotes wisdom and eternity. Serpents live for a large number of years. He
is Trilochana, the three-eyed One, in the centre of whose forehead is the third eye, the eye of
wisdom. Nandi, the bull that sits in front of Sivalinga, represents Pranava (Omkara). The Linga
represents Advaita. It points out “I am one without a second—Ekameva Advitiyam.” Just as a man
raises his right hand above his head, pointing out his right index-finger only.
Kailas hills in Tibet are a huge range with a central, beautiful, naturally carved and
decorated shining peak, eternally clad with silvery snow, 22,280 feet above sea-level. Some take
the height to be 22,028 feet. This particular peak is in the form of a natural, huge Siva Linga (Virat
form). This is worshipped as the form of Lord Siva from a distance. There is neither a temple, nor a
Pujari, nor a daily Puja there. I had the fortune to have Darsana of Kailas through the grace of Lord
Siva, on July 22, 1931. I even climbed with panting breath to the foot of Kailas peak where the
Indus takes its origin. It is a very picturesque, soul-stirring scenery. You will have to ascend from
Didipha Guha, the first halting stage in Parikrama of Kailas. The Indus gushes out as a small
streamlet through blocks of ice from behind the back portion of Kailas peak. Though in the pictures
of Lord Siva it is shown that the Ganga flows from His head, it is really the Indus (Sindhu) that takes
its origin from the head of Siva (Kailas) in the physical plane. Parikrama of Kailas covers 30 miles.
It takes three days. On the way comes the famous and sacred Gauri Kund which is eternally covered
with snow. You will have to break the snow when you take a bath.
The Name of Lord Siva chanted in any way, correctly or incorrectly, knowingly or
unknowingly, carefully or carelessly, is sure to give the desired result. The glory of the Name of
Lord Siva cannot be established through reasoning and intellect. It can certainly be experienced or
realised only through devotion, faith and constant repetition of the Name and singing His hymns
with Bhava. Every Name is filled with countless potencies or Saktis. The power of the Name is
ineffable. Its glory is indescribable. The efficiency and inherent Sakti of the Name of Lord Siva are
unfathomable.
The mind is purified by constant repetition of Siva-Stotra and Names of Lord Siva. The
Stotras are filled with good and pure thoughts. Repetition of the hymns to Siva strengthens the good
Samskaras. “As a man thinks, that he becomes”. This is the psychological law. The mind of a man
who trains himself in thinking good, holy thoughts, develops a tendency to think of good thoughts.
His character is moulded and transformed by continued good thought. When the mind thinks of the
image of the Lord during singing His hymns, the mental substance actually assumes the form of the
image of the Lord. The impression of the object thought of is left in the mind. This is called
Samskara. When the act is repeated very often, the Samskaras gain strength by repetition, and a
tendency or habit is formed in the mind. He who entertains thoughts of Divinity, becomes
transformed actually into the Divinity himself by constant thinking. His Bhava or disposition is
purified and divinised. When one sings the hymns of Lord Siva, he is in tune with the Lord. The
individual mind melts in the cosmic mind. He who sings the hymns becomes one with Lord Siva.
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Just as fire has the natural property of burning inflammable things, so also the Name of Lord
Siva has the power of burning the sins, Samskaras and Vasanas and bestowing eternal bliss and
everlasting peace on those who repeat the Name of the Lord.
Just as burning quality is natural and inherent in fire, so also the power of destroying sins
with their very root and branch and bringing the aspirant into blissful union with the Lord through
Bhava Samadhi, is natural and inherent in the Name of God.
O friends! Take refuge in the Name of Siva. Sing His hymns. Nami and Name are
inseparable. Sing Lord Siva’s hymns incessantly. Remember the Name of the Lord with every
incoming and outgoing breath. In this Iron Age, Nama-Smarana or singing the hymns is the easiest,
quickest, safest and surest way to reach God and attain Immortality and perennial joy. Glory to Lord
Siva! Glory to His Name!!
Ravana propitiated Lord Siva by his hymns. Pushpadanta pleased Lord Siva by his
celebrated Stotra—Siva Mahimna Stotra, which is even now sung by all devotees of Siva
throughout India, and obtained all Aisvarya or Siddhis and Mukti. The glory of the Stotras of Siva is
indescribable. You must all sing the hymns of Lord Siva and obtain His grace and salvation, not in
the unknown future, but right now in this very second. You can please Lord Siva easily. Fast on the
Sivaratri day. If you cannot do this, take milk and fruits. Keep perfect vigil the whole night and sing
His Stotras, and repeat ‘Om Namah Sivaya’. May the blessings of Lord Siva be upon you all!
Om Santih! Santih! Santih!
Chapter II
SIVA TATTVA
In Me the universe had its origin,
In Me alone the whole subsists;
In Me it is lost—Siva,
The Timeless, it is I Myself,
Sivoham! Sivoham! Sivoham!
Salutations to Lord Siva, the vanquisher of Cupid, the bestower of eternal bliss and
immortality, the protector of all beings, destroyer of sins, the Lord of the gods, who wears a
tiger-skin, the best among objects of worship, through whose matted hair the Ganga flows.
Lord Siva is the pure, changeless, attributeless, all-pervading transcendental consciousness.

He is the inactive (Nishkriya) Purusha. Prakriti is dancing on His breast and performing the
creative, preservative and destructive processes.
When there is neither light nor darkness, neither form nor energy, neither sound nor matter,
when there is no manifestation of phenomenal existence, Siva alone exists in Himself. He is
timeless, spaceless, birthless, deathless, decayless. He is beyond the pairs of opposites. He is the
25
SIVA TATTVA
Impersonal Absolute Brahman. He is untouched by pleasure and pain, good and evil. He cannot be
seen by the eyes but He can be realised within the heart through devotion and meditation.
Siva is also the Supreme personal God when He is identified with His power. He is then
omnipotent, omniscient active God. He dances in supreme joy and creates, sustains and destroys
with the rhythm of His dancing movements.
He destroys all bondage, limitation and sorrow of His devotees. He is the giver of Mukti or
the final emancipation. He is the universal Self. He is the true Self of all creatures. He is the dweller
in the cremation-ground, in the region of the dead, those who are dead to the world.
The Jivas and the world originate from Him, exist in Him, are sustained and rejected by Him
and are ultimately merged in Him. He is the support, source and substratum of the whole world. He
is an embodiment of Truth, Beauty, Goodness and Bliss. He is Satyam, Sivam, Subham, Sundaram,
Kantam.
He is the God of gods, Deva-Deva. He is the Great Deity—Mahadeva. He is the God of

manes (Prajapati). He is the most awe-inspiring and terrifying deity, Rudra, with Trisul or trident in
His hand. He is the most easily pleased (Asutosha). He is accessible to all. Even the untouchable
Chandalas and the illiterate rustics can approach Him.
He is the source of all knowledge and wisdom. He is an ideal Yogi and Muni. He is the ideal
head of an ideal family with Uma as His devoted wife, Lord Subrahmanya, the brave general of
strength and courage, Lord Ganesa, the remover of all obstacles.
Sadasiva
At the end of Pralaya, the Supreme Lord thinks of re-creation of the world. He is then known
by the name Sadasiva. He is the root-cause of creation. From Sadasiva creation begins. In
Manusmriti He is called Svayambhu. Sadasiva is unmanifested, He destroys the Tamas caused by
Pralaya and shines as the self-resplendent light bringing forth the five great elements, etc., into
being.
The Siva Purana says that Siva is beyond both Prakriti and Purusha. Siva is Mahesvara. He
is the witness, well-wisher and nourisher of all beings. The Gita says: ‘Upadrashtanumanta cha
bharta bhokta mahesvarah’.
Mahesvara conducts the work of creation according to His will and pleasure. The Sruti says,
‘Mayam tu prakritim viddhi mayinam tu mahesvaram’. Know Prakriti to be Maya and Mahesvara
to be the wielder of Maya or Prakriti. The Sakti of Siva works in two different ways. Mula Prakriti
and Daivi Prakriti. Mula Prakriti is Apara Prakriti from which the five elements and other visible
objects and the Antahkarana are evolved. Para Prakriti is Chaitanya Sakti which converts the Apara
Prakriti and gives name and form to it. Apara Prakriti is Avidya and Para Prakriti is Vidya. The
controller and dispenser of these two Prakritis is Lord Siva.
Siva is distinct from Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra.
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Lord Siva is the Lord of innumerable crores of Brahmandas or worlds. Isvara united with
Maya gives rise to Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra out of Rajas, Sattva and Tamo Gunas respectively,
under the command of Lord Siva. Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra are the trinities of the world.
There is no difference among the trinities, Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra. By the command of
Mahesvara these three do the creative, preservative and destructive duties of the world. The work of
all the three deities is done conjointly. They all have one view and one definite purpose in creating,
preserving and destroying the visible universe of names and forms. He who regards the three deities
as distinct and different, Siva Purana says, is undoubtedly a devil or evil spirit.
The Lord who is beyond the three Gunas, Mahesvara, has four aspects: Brahma, Kala,
Rudra and Vishnu. Siva is the support for all the four. He is the substratum for Sakti also. Siva is
distinct from the Rudra included in the trinities. Rudra is really one though according to the
different functions He is considered to have eleven different forms.
The first face of Siva does Krida or play, the second does penance, the third destroys or
dissolves the world, the fourth protects the people and the fifth, being knowledge, fully covers the
entire universe by its power. He is Isana the creator and promoter of all beings, from within.
The first form of Siva is the enjoyer of Prakriti as Kshetrajna Purusha. The second is
Tatpurusha resting in Sattva-guna, rooted in Bhogya-Prakriti, the Prakriti-enjoyed. The third is
Ghora rooted in the eightfold Buddhi like Dharma, etc. The fourth is Vamadeva rooted in Ahankara
and the fifth is Sadyojata, the presiding deity of the mind. The eight forms of Siva are Sarva, Bhava,
Rudra, Ugra, Bhima, Pasupati, Isana and Mahadeva, rooted respectively in earth, water, fire, air,
ether, Kshetrajna, sun and moon.
Ardhanarisvara
Brahma was unable to create and bring forth creatures from his mental creation. To know
the method of creation he did Tapas. As a result of his Tapas Adyasakti arose in Brahma’s mind.
Through the help of Adyasakti Brahma meditated upon Tryambakesvara. Pleased by the penance of
Brahma, Lord Siva appeared in the form of Ardhanarisvara (half male and half female). Brahma
praised Ardhanarisvara. Lord Siva then created from His body a Goddess by name Prama-Sakti.
Brahma said to the Goddess: “I was not able to bring forth creatures by my mental creation. Though
I created the Devatas yet they could not multiply. Therefore, I wish to bring forth creatures by
intercourse. Before Your appearance or till now, I was not able to create the endless female species.
Therefore, O Devi, be merciful and take birth as the daughter of my son, Daksha.”
World-Teacher
The most auspicious and useful work beneficial to mankind ever carried out by Lord Siva, is
to impart the knowledge of Yoga, Bhakti, Jnana, etc., to the world. He blesses those deserve His
grace and who cannot get out of Samsara without His grace. He is not only the World-Teacher but
also an ideal example to the Jivanmukta or sage. He teaches by His very actions in His daily life.
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SIVA TATTVA
Pasupata Yoga
Uniting the self with the true Siva Tattva by the control of the senses is real wearing of
Bhasma, because Lord Siva through His third eye of wisdom burnt passion to ashes. The meditation
of Pranava should be done through Japa. One should attain the real Jnana, Yoga and Bhakti by
steady practice. In the heart, there is a ten-petalled lotus. It has ten Nadis. It is the Jivatma’s abode.
This Jivatma lives in a subtle form in the mind and it is Chitta or Purusha itself. One should ascend
to the moon by cutting open or transcending the Dasagni Nadi by the regular practice of Yoga as
instructed by the Guru and practising dispassion, righteousness and equality. The moon then
gradually attains fullness, as it gets itself pleased with the Sadhaka on account of his regular
application in Yoga and purification of Nadis. In this state, the Sadhaka overcomes waking and
sleeping state and through meditation merges himself in the object meditated upon in this waking
state itself.
Chapter III
Siva And Tattvas
Satyam Sivam Subham Sundaram Kantam
The Saiva Siddhanta system is the distilled essence of Vedanta. It prevailed in Southern
India even before the Christian era. Tinnelvelly and Madurai are the centres of Saiva Siddhanta
school. Saivites elaborated a distinctive philosophy called the Saiva Siddhanta about the eleventh
century A.D. Even Saivism is a very popular creed in South India. It is a rival school of
Vaishnavism.
Tirumular’s work—Tirumantram—is the foundation upon which the later structure of

Saiva Siddhanta philosophy was built. The twenty-eight Saiva Agamas, the hymns of the Saiva
saints form the chief sources of Southern Saivism.
In the books which treat of Saivism, there is a reference to four schools, viz.,
Nakulisa-pasupata, the Saiva, the Pratyabhijna and Rasesvara.
Lord Siva is the supreme Reality. He is eternal, formless, independent, omnipresent, one
without a second, beginningless, causeless, taintless, self-existent, ever free, ever pure. He is not
limited by time. He is infinite bliss and infinite intelligence.
Lord Siva pervades the whole world by His Sakti. He works His Sakti. Sakti is conscious
energy of Lord Siva. She is the very body of Lord Siva. The potter is the first cause for the pot. The
stick and the wheel are the instrumental causes. The clay is the material cause of the pot. Similarly
Lord Siva is the first cause of the world. Sakti is the instrumental cause. Maya is the material cause.
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Lord Siva is the God of love. His grace is infinite. He is the saviour and Guru. He is engaged
in freeing the souls from the thraldom of matter. He assumes the form of a Guru out of the intense
love for mankind. He wishes that all should know Him and attain the blissful Siva-Pada. He
watches the activities of the individual souls and helps them in their onward march.
In the Saiva Siddhanta, there are 36 Tattvas of which 24 are known as Atma Tattvas, 7 as
Vidya Tattvas, and the remaining 5 as Siva Tattvas. The 24 Atma Tattvas are the 5 elements, ether,
air, fire, water and earth; the 5 Tanmatras, sound, touch, form, taste and smell; the 5 sense-organs,
ear, skin, eye, palate and nose; the internal organ; the 5 motor organs, speech, hand, foot, anus and
the generative organ; and Ahankara, Buddhi and Guna. The 7 Vidya Tattvas are Purusha, Raga
(love), Vidya (knowledge), Kala (art), Niyati (order), Kaala (time) and Asuddha (impure) Maya.
The 5 Siva Tattvas are Suddha Vidya, Isvara, Sadasiva, Sakti and Siva.
Maya evolves into the subtle principles and then into the gross. The individual soul
experiences pleasure and pain through Vidya. Siva Tattva is the basis of all consciousness and
action. It is undifferentiated (Nishkala) Suddha. Maya, the Sakti of Siva starts her activities. Then
Siva becomes the experiencer. Then He is called Sadasiva known also by the name Sadakhya, who
is not really separate from Siva. The Suddhamaya becomes active. Then Siva, the experiencer
becomes the Ruler. He is then Isvara, who is not really separate from Sadasiva. Suddhavidya is the
cause of true knowledge.
The five activities (Pancha-Krityas) of the Lord are Srishti (creation), Sthiti (preservation),
Samhara (destruction), Tirobhava (veiling) and Anugraha (grace). These, separately considered,
are the activities of Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, Mahesvara and Sadasiva.
In the five-lettered Mantra (Panchakshari) ‘Namassivaya’, Na is the screening power of the

Lord that makes the soul to move in the world, Ma is the bond that binds him in the Samsaric wheel
of the births and deaths, Si is the symbol for Lord Siva, Va stands for His grace and Ya stands for the
soul. If the soul turns towards Na and Ma he will be sunk in worldliness. If he associates himself
with Va he will move towards Lord Siva.
Hearing the Lilas of Lord Siva and the significance of Panchakshara, is ‘Sravana’.
Reflection on the meaning of Panchakshara is ‘Manana’ or ‘Chintana’. To develop love and
devotion for Lord Siva and meditate on Him, is ‘Sivadhyana’. To become immersed in
‘Sivananda’, is ‘Nishtha’ or ‘Samadhi’. He who attains this stage is called Jivanmukta.
Pati-Pasu-Pasa
‘Pati’ is Lord Siva. It is the object of all the Vedas and the Agamas to explain the concepts of
Lord (Pati), bound souls (Pasu) which really means cattle, and bondage (Pasa). Lord Siva is infinite,
eternal, one without a second. He is changeless and indivisible. He is the embodiment of knowledge
and bliss. He energises the intelligence of all souls. He is beyond the reach of mind and speech. He
is the ultimate goal of all. He is smaller than the smallest and greater than the greatest. He is
self-luminous, self-existent, self-contained and self-delight.
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‘Pasus’ are the individual souls who are sunk in the quagmire of Samsara. They assume
bodies to work out their good and evil actions and are born as lower and higher beings according to
their nature of Karma. They do virtuous and vicious actions in the course of experiencing the
endless fruits of their Karma and have countless births and deaths. Ultimately they attain the grace
of Lord Siva through meritorious acts and their ignorance is dispelled. They attain salvation and
become one with Lord Siva.
‘Pasa’ is bond. The web of bonds is distinguished into Avidya or Anavamala, Karma and
Maya. Anavamala is egoism. It is the taint due to the false notion of finiteness which the soul has.
The soul imagines itself to be finite and confined to the body and of limited knowledge and power.
It erroneously identifies itself with the perishable body and mistakes the body for its reality. It has
forgotten its essential divine nature.
‘Karma’ is the cause of bodies and manifold bodily experiences and births and deaths. It is
beginningless. It is the cause of the conjunction of the conscious soul with the unconscious body. It
is an auxiliary of Avidya. It is done through thought, word and deed. It takes the form of merit and
sin and produces pleasure and pain. It is subtle and unseen (Adrishta). It exists during creation and
merges into the substratum of Maya during Pralaya. It cannot be destroyed. It must work out its
results.
Maya is the material cause of the world. It is unconscious or unintelligent, omnipresent,

imperishable. It is the seed of the world. The four categories, viz., Tanu, Karana, Bhuvana and
Bhoga beginning with the bodies, spring up from Maya. It permeates all its developments and
causes perversion in the Karmic souls. During Pralaya it is the basic resort of all souls. It is itself a
bond for the souls. All these processes in it are due to the energising influence by Lord Siva. Just as
the trunk, the leaf and the fruit grow from the seed, so also the universe from Kala to earth, springs
from Maya.
The real Nada, the root of sound is evolved from pure Maya by the will of Lord Siva. From
Nada, the real Bindu springs up. From it, the real Sadasiva originates and gives birth to Isvara.
Suddha Avidya is developed from Isvara. The world originates from Bindu and develops into
various forms.
Sadhana
One will develop love and devotion for Lord Siva if he is freed from egoism. Chariyai,
Kiriyai, Yoga and Jnana are the four Sadhanas or steps to kill egoism and attain Lord Siva. Erecting
temples, cleaning them, making garlands of flowers, singing Lord’s praises, burning lamps in the
temples, making flower gardens constitute Chariyai. Kiriyai is to perform Puja, Archanas. Yoga is
restraint of the senses and contemplation on the internal light. Jnana is to understand the true
significance of Pati, Pasu, Pasa and to become one with Siva by constant meditation on Him after
removing the three Malas, viz., Anava (egoism), Karma (action) and Maya (illusion).
The worship of the all-pervading, eternal Supreme Being through external forms, is called
Chariyai. The requisite initiation for this, is Samaya Diksha. The worship of the cosmic form of the
Eternal Ruler of the universe externally and internally, is called Kiriyai. The internal worship of
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Him as formless, is called Yoga. For Kiriyai and Yoga, the requisite initiation is called Visesha
Diksha. The direct realisation of Lord Siva through Jnana Guru, is called Jnana. The initiation that
leads to it, is called Nirvana Diksha.
The aspirant should free himself from the three kinds of Mala, viz., Anava, Karma and
Maya. Then only he becomes one with Lord Siva and enjoys ‘Sivanandam’. He should thoroughly
annihilate his egoism, free himself from the bondage of Karma and destroy the Maya which is the
basis of all impurities.
Guru or the spiritual preceptor is very essential for attaining the final emancipation. Siva is
full of grace. He helps the aspirants. He showers His grace on those who worship Him with faith and
devotion and who have childlike trust in Him. Siva Himself is the Guru. The grace of Siva is the
road to salvation. Siva lives in the Guru and looks with intense love on the sincere aspirant through
the eyes of the Guru. Only if you have love for mankind, you can love God.
If the aspirant establishes a relationship between himself and Lord Siva, he will grow in
devotion quickly. He can have the mental attitude or Bhava—Dasya Bhava or the relationship of
master and servant which Tirunavukarasar had, or the Vatsalya Bhava wherein Lord Siva is the
father and the aspirant is the child of Lord Siva which Tirujnanasambandhar had, or the Sakhya
Bhava or the relationship of friend (Lord Siva is regarded as the friend of the aspirant) which
Sundarar had, or the Sanmarga wherein Lord Siva is the very life of the aspirant which
Manikkavasagar had, which corresponds to the Madhurya Bhava or Atma Nivedana of the
Vaishnavites.
The devotee becomes one with Siva, like salt with water, milk with milk, when the three
Malas (Pasa) are destroyed, but he cannot do the five functions of creation, etc. God only can
perform the five functions.
The liberated soul is called a Jivanmukta. Though he lives in the bogy, he is one in feeling
with the Absolute. He does not perform works which can produce further bodies. As he is free from
egoism, work cannot bind him. He will do meritorious acts for the solidarity of the world
(Lokasangraha). He lives in the body, until his Prarabdha Karma is exhausted. All his present
actions are consumed by the grace of the Lord. The Jivanmukta does all actions on account of the
impulsion of the Lord within him. Glory to Lord Siva and His Sakti!
Ashtamurti
Siva is spoken of as being in eight forms (Ashtamurti). The eight forms of Siva are the five
elements, the sun, the moon and the priest who performs sacrifice.
Vishnu appeared in the Mohini form after the churning of the milk-ocean. Siva embraced
Vishnu in that form. Sasta is the offspring of Siva and Mohini. Sasta is called also by the name
Hari-Hara-Putra or the son of Hari and Hara.
Appar wanted all Saivas to regard Vishnu as only another aspect of Siva.
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According to Appar, there are three aspects of Siva. (1) The lower Siva who dissolves the
world and who liberates Jivas from their bondage. (2) The higher form is called Parapara. In this
form Siva appears as Siva and Sakti (Ardhanarisvara). It has the name Param-Jyoti. Brahma and
Vishnu were not able to comprehend this Jyoti. (3) Beyond these two forms is the Param, or the
ultimate being from whom Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra originate. It is purely the Saiva form. It is
formless. It is the Sivam of the Saiva Siddhanta. It is Para Brahman of the Upanishads and
Vedantins.
The Mahavishnu of Vishnu Purana corresponds to Param of Saiva Siddhantins. Narayana or

the higher Vishnu corresponds to the Param-jyoti of Appar or Saiva Siddhantins. The lower Vishnu
does the function of preservation. He corresponds to the lower Siva.
What is the inner meaning of all the Saiva allusions about Vishnu worshipping Siva and all
the Vaishnava allusions about Siva worshipping Vishnu? The lower Siva must take Narayana, the
Parapara or Param-jyoti as his Superior. The lower Vishnu must take Param-jyoti or the Parapara as
his Superior. The higher Vishnu and higher Siva are identical. They are inferior to Param, the
Highest.
In that highest condition called Siva Mukti, there is no duality. No one can see anything.
One merges himself in Sivam or the Highest. If you wish to see, you will have to come to the stage
immediately below the Highest.
The Siva Murti or manifestation is inferior to the real ‘Sivam’ which is formless.
According to the Saiva Siddhanta philosophy, the Tattvas are reckoned as ninety-six. They
are as follows:
24 Atma Tattvas, 10 Nadis, 5 Avasthas or conditions, 3 Malas or impurities, 3 Gunas

(Sattva, Rajas and Tamas), 3 Mandalas (Surya or the sun, Agni or the fire and Chandra or the
moon), 3 humours (Vata, Pitta and Sleshma), 8 Vikaras or modifications (Kama, Krodha, Lobha,
Moha, Mada, Matsarya, Dambha and Asuya), 6 Adharas, 7 Dhatus, 10 Vayus, 5 Koshas and 9
doorways. The twenty-four Tattvas are the 5 elements (Bhutas), 5 Tanmatras (Sabda, etc.), 5
Jnana-Indriyas, 5 Karma-Indriyas and 4 Karanas (Manas, Buddhi, Chitta and Ahamkara). All these
96 relate to the body. Over and above these 96, there are the 5 Kanchukas or coverings. They are
Niyati, Kaala, Kala, Raga and Vidya. The five enter the body and cause weariness to the Tattvas of
the body and afflict the body.
Suddha Saiva
The Suddha Saiva does not attain the final emancipation by Kriya (Kiriyai) alone. He attains
only Salokya. Jnana in Kriya leads to Salokya, the world of Siva. Jnana in Charya (Chariyai) leads
him to Samipya (proximity to Siva). Jnana in Yoga bestows on him Sarupya (likeness in form).
Jnana in Jnana leads him to Sayujya, merging or absorption.
‘Ambalam’ means ‘open space of the heart’ or Chidakasa or Chidambaram.
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And Lingam is the Visvarupa or the God’s form of the Universe.
He who brings about the destruction of the world is Siva or Rudra. That is the reason why
He is held superior to Brahma and Vishnu.
The Siddhantins divide Jivas or Pasus into three orders, viz., Vijnana Kalar, Pralaya Kalar
and Sakalar. Vijnana Kalar have only the Anava Mala (egoism). Pralaya Kalar have Anava and
Maya. Sakalar have all the Malas, Anava, Karma and Maya. The Malas affect only the Jivas and not
Siva. Those who are freed from the Malas or impurities become identical with Siva. They are
Siddhas or perfected beings.
Chapter IV
Philosophy Of Symbols
Lord Siva represents the destructive aspect of Brahman. That portion of Brahman that is
enveloped by Tamo-Guna-Pradhana Maya is Lord Siva who is the all-pervading Isvara and who
also dwells in Mount Kailas. He is the Bhandara or store-house for wisdom. Siva minus Parvati or
Kali or Durga is Nirguna Brahman Himself. With Maya-Parvati He becomes the Saguna Brahman
for the purpose of pious devotion of His devotees. Devotees of Rama must worship Lord Siva for 3
or 6 months before they take to worship of Rama. Rama Himself worshipped Lord Siva at the
famous Ramesvaram. Lord Siva is the Lord of Ascetics and Lord of Yogins, robed in space
(Digambara).
His Trisul (trident) that is held in His right hand represents the three Gunas—Sattva, Rajas
and Tamas. That is the emblem of Sovereignty. He wields the world through these three Gunas. The
Damaru in His left hand represents the Sabda Brahman. It represents OM from which all languages
are formed. It is He who formed the Sanskrit language out of the Damaru.
The crescent moon indicates that He has controlled the mind perfectly. The flow of the
Ganga represents the nectar of Immortality. Elephant represents symbolically pride. His wearing
the skin of the elephant denotes that He has controlled pride. Tiger represents lust; His sitting on
tiger’s skin indicates that He has conquered lust. His holding a deer on one hand indicates that He
has removed the Chanchalata (tossing) of the mind. Deer jumps from one place to another swiftly.
His wearing of serpents denotes wisdom and eternity. Serpents live for a large number of years. He
is Trilochana, the three-eyed One, in the centre of whose forehead is the third eye, the eye of
wisdom.
‘Hoam’ is the Bija Akshara of Lord Siva.
He is Sivam (auspicious, Subham), Sundaram (beautiful), Kantam (effulgent). “Santam

Sivam Advaitam” (Mandukya Upanishad).
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I bow with folded hands crores of times at the lotus-feet of that Lord Siva who is non-dual,
who is the Adhishthana, or support for the world and all minds, who is Sat-Chit-Ananda, who is the
Ruler, the Antaryamin, the Sakshi (silent witness) for everything, who is self-effulgent,
self-existent and self-contained (Pari-purna), who is the remover of the primitive Avidya and who
is the Adi-Guru or Parama-Guru or Jagad-Guru.
That Lord Siva I am in essence. Sivoham, Sivoham, Sivoham.
Snake On The Body Of Siva
Serpent is the Jiva or the individual soul which rests upon Siva, the Paramatman or the
Supreme Soul. The five hoods mean the five senses or the five Tattvas, viz., earth, water, fire, air
and ether. They also represent the five Pranas, which hiss in the body like the serpent. The
inhalation and exhalation are like the hissing of the serpent. Lord Siva Himself became the five
Tanmatras, the five Jnanendriyas, the five Karmendriyas and other groups of five. The individual
soul enjoys the worldly objects through these Tattvas. When the individual attains knowledge
through control of the senses and the mind, he finds his eternal resting abode in Lord Siva, the
Supreme Soul. This is the esoteric significance of Lord Siva wearing the snake on His body.
Lord Siva is absolutely fearless. Srutis declare, “This Brahman is fearless (Abhayam),
Immortal (Amritam).” Worldly people are afraid even at the very sight of a snake but Lord Siva is
wearing serpents as ornaments on His body. This indicates that Lord Siva is absolutely fearless and
immortal.
Generally serpents live for hundreds of years. Wearing of serpents by Lord Siva signifies
that He is Eternal.
Significance of Bhasma, Nandi, Etc.
Namassivaya is the Mantra of Lord Siva. ‘Na’ represents earth and Brahma; ‘Ma’
represents water and Vishnu; ‘Si’ fire and Rudra; ‘Va’ Vayu and Mahesvara; ‘Ya’ Akasa and
Sadasiva and also the Jiva.
Lord Siva has white complexion. What is the significance of white colour? He teaches
silently that people should have pure heart and entertain pure thoughts and should be free from
crookedness, diplomacy, cunningness, jealousy, hatred, etc.
He wears three white-lined Bhasma or Vibhuti on His forehead. What is the significance of
this? He teaches silently that people should destroy the three impurities, viz., Anava (egoism),
Karma (action with expectation of fruits), and Maya (illusion), and the three desires or Eshanas,
viz., desire for landed property, desire for woman, desire for gold, and the three Vasanas, viz.,
Lokavasana, Dehavasana and Sastravasana, and then attain Him with a pure heart.
What does the Balipitha or altar which stands in front of the sanctum sanctorum of the
Siva’s temple represent? People should destroy their egoism and mineness (Ahamta and Mamata)
before they attain the Lord. This is the significance.
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What does Nandi or the bull which is in front of Sivalinga represent? Nandi is the attendant
or doorkeeper of Siva. He is the vehicle of Lord Siva. He represents Satsanga. If you make
association with the sages, you are sure to attain God-realisation. Sages will show you the way to
reach Him. They will remove pitfalls or snares that lie on your path. They will clear your doubts and
instil in your heart dispassion, discrimination and knowledge. There is no other safe boat than
Satsanga to reach the other shore of fearlessness and immortality. Even a moment’s Satsanga or
association with the sages, is a great blessing to the aspirants and the worldly-minded persons. They
get firm conviction in the existence of God through Satsanga. The sages remove the worldly
Samskaras. The company of sages is a formidable fortress to protect oneself from the temptations of
Maya.
Lord Siva represents the destructive aspect of the Godhead. He is seen absorbed on the
mountain peak of Kailas. He is an embodiment of serenity, renunciation and indifference to the
world. The third eye in the centre of His forehead represents His destructive energy which when let
loose destroys the world. Nandi is His favourite. He is the door-Keeper. He is seen hushing all
nature, so that the Lord may not be disturbed in His Samadhi. The Lord has five faces, ten hands, ten
eyes, two feet.
Vrishabha or the bull represents Dharma Devata. Lord Siva rides on the bull. Bull is His
vehicle. This denotes that Lord Siva is the protector of Dharma, is an embodiment of Dharma or
righteousness.
Deer represents the Vedas. Its four legs are the four Vedas. Lord Siva is holding the deer in
His hand. This indicates that He is the Lord of the Vedas.
He has sword in one of His hands. This signifies that He is the destroyer of births and deaths.
The fire in one of His hands shows that He protects the Jivas by burning all fetters.
Philosophy of Abhisheka
Salutations and adorations to the blissful Lord Siva, the lover of Uma or Parvati, the Lord of
all beings (Pasupati).
“Alankarapriyo Vishnuh, Abhishekapriyah Sivah—Lord Vishnu is very fond of Alankara

(fine dress, beautiful ornaments, etc.); Siva is fond of Abhisheka.” In Siva temples, a pot made up of
copper or brass with a hole in the centre is kept hanging over the image or Linga of Siva, and water
is falling on the image throughout day and night. Pouring over the Linga, water, milk, ghee, curd,
honey, cocoanut water, Panchamrita, etc., is Abhisheka. Abhisheka is done for Lord Siva. Rudra is
chanted along with the Abhisheka. Lord Siva is propitiated by Abhisheka.
Lord Siva drank the poison that emanated from the ocean and wore the Ganga and moon on
His head to cool His head. He has the fiery third eye. Constant Abhisheka cools this eye.
The greatest and the highest Abhisheka is to pour the waters of pure love on the Atmalinga
of the lotus of the heart. The external Abhisheka with various objects will help the growth of
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devotion and adoration for Lord Siva and eventually lead to internal Abhisheka with pure abundant
flow of love.
Abhisheka is a part of Siva Puja. Without Abhisheka, worship of Siva is incomplete. During
Abhisheka Rudra, Purushasukta, Chamaka, Maha-mrityunjaya Japa, etc., are chanted in a
particular rhythm and order. Monday is very important day for Lord Siva and the thirteenth day of
the fortnight (Pradosha) is very sacred. On these days, devotees of Siva worship Him with special
Puja, Abhisheka with Ekadasa-Rudra, Archana, offering plenty of Prasad, and illumination.
In Ekadasa-Rudra Abhisheka, every Rudra is chanted with distinctive articles for

Abhisheka. Ganga water, milk, ghee, honey, rose-water, cocoanut water, sandal paste,
Panchamrita, scented oil, sugarcane juice and lime juice are made use of for Abhisheka. After every
Abhisheka, pure water is poured over the head of Siva. When Rudra is repeated once, the different
articles of Abhisheka are made use of after every stanza of the Rudra. The Abhisheka water or other
articles used for Abhisheka are considered very sacred and bestow immense benefits on the
devotees who take it as the Lord’s Prasad. It purifies the heart and destroys countless sins. You must
take it with intense Bhava and faith.
When you do Abhisheka with Bhava and devotion, your mind is concentrated. Your heart is
filled with the image of the Lord and divine thoughts. You forget your body and its relation and
surroundings. Egoism gradually vanishes. When there is forgetfulness, you begin to enjoy and taste
the eternal bliss of Lord Siva. Recitation of Rudra or Om Namassivaya purifies the mind and fills it
with Sattva.
If you do Abhisheka with Rudrapatha in the name of a person suffering from any disease he
will be soon freed from that disease. Incurable diseases are cured by Abhisheka. Abhisheka bestows
health, wealth, prosperity, progeny, etc. Abhisheka on Monday is most auspicious.
By offering Panchamrita, honey, milk, etc., to the Lord, thoughts of your body diminish.
Selfishness slowly vanishes. You derive immense joy. You begin to increase your offerings unto
the Lord. Therefore, self-sacrifice and self-surrender come in. Naturally, there is an outpouring
from your heart, “I am Thine, my Lord. All is Thine, my Lord”.
Kannappa Nayanar, a great devotee of Lord Siva, a hunter by profession, did Abhisheka
with the water in his mouth for the Linga at Kalahasti in South India and propitiated Lord Siva. Lord
Siva is pleased by pure devotion. It is the mental Bhava that counts and not the outward show. Lord
Siva said to the temple priest: “This water from the mouth of Kannappa, my beloved devotee, is
more pure than the water of the Ganga”.
A devotee should be regular in doing Abhisheka for the Lord. He should get by heart Rudra
and Chamakam. Ekadasa Rudra is more powerful and effective. In Northern India, every man or
woman takes a lota of water and pours it on the image of Siva. This also causes beneficial results
and brings about the fulfilment of one’s desire. Abhisheka on Sivaratri day is very effective.
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May you all recite Rudrapatha which describes the glory of Lord Siva and His
manifestations in every living being, in every animate and inanimate being! May you do Abhisheka
daily and thus obtain the grace of Lord Siva! May Lord Visvanatha bless you all!
Fruit of Abhisheka and Rudra Japa in Siva’s Temple
Chamaka is divided into eleven sections. Each of these is then combined with Namaka
(Rudra) and repeated. This is called Rudra. Eleven such Rudras make one Laghu Rudra. Eleven
Laghu Rudras make one Maharudra. Eleven Maharudras make one Atirudra.
Rudra is to be repeated after performing the initial Sankalpa, Puja, Nyasa, Anga.
Panchamritasnana and Dhyana. The fruit of Rudra Japa is stated as shown below:
No. of Japa Fruit of Japa
1 Rudra Freedom from Bala graha (diseases common to children).
3 Rudra Freedom from imminent difficulties with which one is faced.
5 Rudra Freedom from the evil effects of certain planets occupying

unfavourable positions.
7 Rudra Freedom from great fear.
9 Rudra The fruit of one Vajapeya sacrifice; and also attainment of peace of
mind.
11 Rudra Getting the favour of kings and great wealth.
33 Rudra Attainment of wishes for objects and having no enemies.
77 Rudra Enjoyment of great happiness.
99 Rudra Attainment of son, grandson, wealth, grain, Dharma, Artha, Kama and
Moksha and freedom from death.
1 Maharudra Attainment of the favour of kings and becoming the Lord of great
wealth.
3 Maharudra Fulfilment of impossible tasks.
5 Maharudra Acquirement of vast lands.
7 Maharudra Attainment of the seven worlds.
9 Maharudra Freedom from births and deaths.
1 Atirudra Becoming God.
37
Materials for Abhisheka: Pure water, milk, sugarcane juice, ghee, honey, waters of sacred
rivers, sea water.
For getting rain, Abhisheka should be done with pure water. For freedom from diseases, and
for begetting a son, Abhisheka should be done with milk. If Abhisheka is done with milk, even a
barren woman begets children. The person also attains plenty of cows. If Abhisheka is done with
Kusa water, one becomes free from all diseases. He who desires wealth, should perform Abhisheka
with ghee, honey and sugarcane juice. He who desires Moksha, should do Abhisheka with sacred
waters.
Chapter V
I
p:adsy:aev:B:üv:nt:im:v:n:et:m:v:n:ð rx:t:H sv:òrp:at:òH
s:ök:ðc:ðn:òv: d:ð\N:aö m:ØhÚreB:n:y:t:H s:v:ül::ðkaet:g:an:am:Î .
dáeÄö l:xy:ðv:Ø n::ðg:Òjv:l:n:kN:m:Øc:ö b:¿:t::ð dahB:it:ð-
Erty:aD:aran:Ør:ðD:at:Î e*:p:Ørev:j:ey:n:H p:at:Ø v::ð dÙHK:n:à¶:m:Î ..
pàdasyàvirbhavantãmavanatimavane rakùataþ svairapàtaiþ
saükocenaiva doùõàü muhurabhinayataþ sarvalokàtigànàm |
dçùñiü lakùyevu nograjvalanakaõamucaü badhnato dàhabhãte-
rityàdhàrànurodhàt tripuravijayinaþ pàtu vo duþkhançttam ||
The Tandava or celestial dance of Lord Siva is extremely thrilling and charming,
exquisitely graceful in pose and rhythm and intensely piercing in effect.
Nritya or Tandava is an inseparable, sacred movement of the various limbs of the body in
accordance with the inner divine Bhava. Nritya is a divine science. The Adigurus for this celestial
Nritya were Lord Siva, Krishna and Mother Kali. In Nritya, the six Bhavas, viz., Srishti, Samhara,
Vidya, Avidya, Gati and Agati are demonstrated.
The dance of Lord Siva is for the welfare of the world. The object of His dance is to free the
souls from the fetters of Maya, from the three bonds of Anava, Karma and Maya. He is not the
destroyer but He is the regenerator. He is the Mangala Data and Ananda Data, bestower of
auspiciousness and bliss. He is more easily pleased than Lord Hari, He grants boons quickly, for a
little Tapas or a little recitation of His five letters.
38
‘Aghada Bhum’ is His song of dance. When Siva starts His dance Brahma, Vishnu, the Siva
Ganas and Kali with Her bowl of skull, join Him. Have you not seen the picture of Pradosha Nritya?
It will give you an idea of the dance of Siva.
Kali was very proud of Her ability in dancing. Siva started dancing to quell Her pride. He
danced very beautifully, very artistically. Kali had to put Her face down in shame.
Lord Siva wears a deer in the left upper hand. He has trident in the right lower arm. He has
fire and Damaru and Malu, a kind of weapon. He wears five serpents as ornaments. He wears a
garland of skulls. He is pressing with His feet the demon Muyalaka, a dwarf holding a cobra. He
faces south. Panchakshari itself is His body. Lord Siva says: “Control the five senses which are
hissing like serpents. The mind is jumping like a deer. Control the mind. Burn it in the fire of
meditation. Strike it down with the Trisula of discrimination. You can attain Me”. This is the
philosophical significance of the picture of Lord Siva.
You can witness the dance of Siva in the rising waves of the ocean, in the oscillation of the
mind, in the movements of the senses and the Pranas, in the rotation of the planets and
constellations, in cosmic Pralaya, in epidemics of infectious diseases, in huge inundations and
volcanic eruptions, in earthquakes, landslips, lightning and thunder, in huge conflagrations and
cyclonic storm.
As soon as the Guna Samya Avastha, wherein the three Gunas exist in a state of equilibrium,
is disturbed by the will of the Lord, the Gunas manifest and quintuplication of elements takes place.
There is vibration of Omkara or Sabda Brahman. There is manifestation of primal energy. This is
the dance of Siva. The whole cosmic play or activity or Lila is the dance of Siva. All movements
within the cosmos are His dance. He gazes on Prakriti and energises Her. Mind, Prana, matter begin
to dance. When He begins to dance, the Sakti Tattva manifests. From Sakti, Nada proceeds and
from Nada, Bindu originates. Then the universe of names and forms is projected. The
undifferentiated matter, energy and sound become differentiated.
The burning grounds are the abodes of Siva. Rudra is the destructive aspect of the Lord.
Lord Siva dances in the crematorium with Kali, in His ten-armed form. The Siva Ganas also join
with Him in the dance.
Nataraja of Chidambaram is the expert dancer. He has four hands. He wears the Ganga and
the crescent moon on His matted locks. He holds Damaru in His right hand. He shows Abhaya
Mudra to His devotees with His raised left hand. The significance is: “O devotees! Do not be afraid.
I shall protect you all.” One left hand holds the fire. The other right hand points down on the Asura
Muyalaka who is holding a cobra. He has raised the left foot in a beautiful manner.
The sound of the drum invites the individual souls to His feet. It represents Omkara. All the
Sanskrit alphabets have come out of the play of the Damaru. Creation arises from Damaru. The
hand which shows Abhaya Mudra gives protection. Destruction proceeds from fire. The raised foot
indicates Maya or illusion. The hand which points down shows that His feet are the sole refuge of
the individual souls. Tiruakshi represents Omkara or Pranava.
39
Chidambaram is a sacred place of pilgrimage in South India. All the Tamil saints have sung
hymns in praise of Nataraja. There is Akasa Linga here which indicates that Lord Siva is formless
and attributeless. The popular saying goes: “He who dies in Banares with Ramanam in his lips and
heart, attains salvation. He who remembers Arunachalam or Tiruvannamalai attains Mukti. He who
gets Darsana of Nataraja attains final emancipation.” Real Chidambaram is within the heart.
Nataraja dances in the hearts of devotees who have burnt egoism, lust, hatred, pride and jealousy.
He dances quite gently. If He dances vehemently the whole earth will sink down at once. He
dances with His eyes closed, because the sparks from His eyes will consume the entire universe.
The five activities of the Lord, Panchakriyas, viz., Srishti (creation), Sthiti (preservation), Samhara
(destruction), Tirobhava (illusion) and Anugraha (grace), are the dances of Siva.
May you all comprehend the true significance of the dance of Siva. May you all dance in
ecstasy in tune with Lord Siva and merge in Him and enjoy the Sivananda, the final beatitude of
life!
II
Lord Siva is an embodiment of wisdom. He is the Light of lights. He is Paramjyoti or

supreme Light. He is self-luminous or Svayam-Jyoti. The dance of Siva represents the rhythm and
movement of the world-spirit. At His dance the evil forces and darkness quiver and vanish.
In the night of Brahma or during Pralaya, Prakriti is inert, motionless. There is Guna-Samya
Avastha. The three Gunas are in a state of equilibrium or poise. She cannot dance till Lord Siva
wills it. Lord Siva rises from His profound silence and begins to dance. The undifferentiated sound
becomes differentiated through the vibration set up by the movements of His Damaru or drum.
Sabda Brahman comes into being. The undifferentiated energy also becomes differentiated. The
equipoise in the Gunas becomes disturbed. The three Gunas Sattva, Rajas and Tamas manifest. All
the spheres, the atoms and the electrons also dance rhythmically and in an orderly manner. Atoms
dance in the molecule and molecules dance in all bodies. Stars dance in time and space. Prakriti also
begins to dance about Him as His glory or Vibhuti. The Prana begins to operate on Akasa or subtle
matter. Various forms manifest. Hiranyagarbha or the golden egg or the cosmic mind also
manifests.
When the time comes, Lord Siva destroys all names and forms by fire while dancing. There
is stillness again.
This is the symbolism involved in the form of Nataraja. The deer in the hand of Siva
represents Asuddha Maya. The axe represents knowledge which destroys ignorance. The drum, the
outstretched arm that carries fire, the water (Ganga), the hand with the axe, the foot standing on the
Asura Muyalaka, are the formless or Sukshma Panchaksharas.
Srishti (creation) is in the drum; Sthiti (preservation) is in the Abhaya hand; Samhara
(destruction) is in the hand that holds the axe; Tirobhava (veiling) is in the pressing foot; and
Anugraha (blessing) is in the uplifted foot.
40
There are various kinds of dances of Siva. There are the Samhara dance, the five dances, the
six dances, the eight dances, the Kodu Kotti dance, the Pandam dance, the Kodu dance. The Kodu
Kotti is the dance after the destruction of everything. Pandam is the dance after the destruction of
the three cities, wearing the ashes of those cities. Kodu or Kapalam is the dance holding Brahma’s
head in the hand. Samhara is the dance at the time of dissolution or Pralaya.
Srishti, Sthiti, Samhara, Tirobhava and Anugraha, and also Muni-Tandava, Anavarata
Tandava and Ananda Tandava constitute the eight dances. Sivananda dance, Sundara dance, the
golden city dance, the golden Chidambaram dance and the wonderful dance form the five dances.
The five previous dances and the Ananda dance in the end form the six dances.
Lord Siva is the only dancer. He is the Master or expert dancer. He is the King of dancers.
He quelled the pride of Kali. Lord Siva’s destruction is not a single act, but is a series of acts. There
is a different kind of dance at every stage.
May Lord Nataraja, the great dancer help you in the attainment of Sivanandam or the eternal
bliss of Siva!
Lord Nataraja—The Great Dancer
‘Ya’ in Namassivaya represents Jiva or the individual soul. The Panchakshara Namassivaya
forms the body of Lord Siva. The hand that wears fire is ‘Na’. The foot that presses the demon
Muyalaka is ‘Ma’. The hand that holds Damaru is ‘Si’. The right and left hand that move about are
‘Va’. The hand that shows Abhaya is ‘Ya’.
Once upon a time, a group of Rishis abandoned their faith in the true Lord and took to the
worship of false deities. Lord Siva wanted to teach them a lesson. He stirred in them strange
passions. The Rishis became very furious. They created many evils through their power of penance
and let them loose upon Siva. Lord Siva overcame them and finally defeated the great Kali, a
creation of the Rishis, by the cosmic dance.
At the time of Sri Nataraja’s dance, Patanjali Rishi and Vyaghrapada were witnessing the
dance and enjoying it. They were standing on either side of the Lord. Even in paintings and
sculpture of the Nataraja’s Murti, you will find the figures of Patanjali and Vyaghrapada on either
side of Nataraja. The lower part of the body of Vyaghrapada will resemble that of tiger and the
corresponding part of Patanjali that of the serpent.
The most wonderful dance of Nataraja is the Urdhva Tandava. In this dance the left leg is
lifted up and the toe points to the sky. This is the most difficult form of dance. Nataraja defeated
Kali by this pose in dancing. Kali successfully competed with Nataraja in all other modes of dance.
Nataraja lost His earring while dancing. He succeeded by means of His toe, in this form of dance, in
restoring the ornament to its original place without the knowledge of the audience.
Nataraja danced with His right leg lifted upwards. This is the Gajahasta pose in dancing or
Nritya. He danced continuously without changing His legs once.
41
There is another dance pose of Siva on the head of an elephant. In this form, Lord Siva is
known as Gajasana Murti. At the foot of Lord Siva, there is the head of an elephant monster. Lord
Siva has eight hands. He holds the trident, the drum and the noose in His three right hands. He holds
the shield and the skull in His two hands. The third left hand is held in Vismaya pose.
An Asura assumed the form of an elephant to kill the Brahmins who were sitting round the
Linga of Visvanath in Banares, absorbed in meditation. Lord Siva came out suddenly from the
Linga and killed the elephant-monster and used the skin as His garment.
Dance of Siva
The flood of nineteen-twenty-four

Was horrible in Rishikesh
It carried away many Mahatmas and Sadhus
This is the dance of Siva.
The impetuous Chandrabhaga

Turned its course in 1943
People crossed it with difficulty
With the help of elephant
In the morning of eleventh January 1945

There was fall of snow
On the surrounding Himalayas
The chill was terrible
Lord Visvanath dwells now

In a place where there was forest.
He pleases the whole world.
He bestows health and long life.
Forests become Ashrams,

Islands become an ocean,
Ocean becomes an island,
Cities become deserts,
Siva gazes His Sakti

Then there is the atomic dance
There is the dance of Prakriti
Lord Siva merely witnesses
42
Then Prana vibrates, mind moves,

Senses function, Buddhi operates,
Heart pumps, lungs breathe,
Stomach digests, intestines excrete,
This is a world of change

A changing thing is perishable
Know the Imperishable
Which is changeless
And become Immortal.
Chapter VI
I
The power or active aspect of the immanent God is Sakti. Sakti is the embodiment of power.
She is the supporter of the vast universe. She is the supreme power by which the world is upheld.
She is the Universal Mother. She is Durga, Kali, Chandi, Chamundi, Tripurasundari, Rajesvari.
There is no difference between God and His Sakti, just as there is no difference between fire and its
burning power.
He who worships Sakti, that is, God in Mother form, as the supreme power which creates,
sustains and withdraws the universe, is a Sakta. All women are forms of the Divine Mother.
Siva is the unchanging consciousness. Sakti is His changing power which appears as mind
and matter. Saktivada or Saktadarsana is a form of monism or Advaitavada.
A Sakta does Sadhana which helps the union of Siva and Sakti, through the awakening of
the forces within the body. He becomes a Siddha in the Sadhana, when he is able to awaken
Kundalini and pierce the six Chakras. This is to be done in a perfect practical way under the
guidance of a Guru who has become perfect. The Sakti must be awakened by Dhyana, by Bhava, by
Japa, by Mantra-Sakti. The Mother, the embodiment of the fifty letters, is present in the various
letters in the different Chakras. When the chords of a musical instrument are struck harmoniously,
fine music is produced. Even so, when the chords of the letters are struck in their order, the Mother
who moves in the six Chakras and who is the very self of the letters, awakens Herself. The Sadhaka
attains Siddhi easily when She is roused. It is difficult to say when and how She shows Herself and
to what Sadhaka. Sadhana means unfolding, rousing up or awakening of power or Sakti. Mode of
Sadhana depends upon the tendencies and capacities of the Sadhaka.
Sakti may be termed as that by which we live and have our being in this universe. In this
world all the wants of the child are provided by the mother. The child’s growth, development and
43
sustenance are looked after by the mother. Even so, all the necessaries of life and its activities in this
world and the energy needed for it, depend upon Sakti or the Universal Mother.
No one can free himself from the thraldom of mind and matter without Mother’s grace. The
fetters of Maya are too hard to break. If you worship Her as the great Mother, you can very easily go
beyond Prakriti through Her benign grace and blessings. She will remove all obstacles in the path
and lead you safely into the illimitable domain of eternal bliss and make you free. When She is
pleased and bestows Her blessings on you, then alone you can free yourself from the bondage of this
formidable Samsara.
The first syllable which a child or a quadruped utters is the name of the beloved mother. Is
there any child which does not owe its all to the affection and love of its mother? It is the mother
who protects you, consoles you, cheers you and nurses you. She is your friend, philosopher,
protector and guide throughout your life. Human mother is a manifestation of the Universal
Mother.
The Supreme Lord is represented as Siva and His power is represented as his consort, Sakti
or Durga or Kali. Just as the husband and wife look after the well-being of the family, so also Lord
Siva and His Sakti are engaged in looking after the affairs of the world.
Radha, Durga, Lakshmi, Sarasvati and Savitri are the five primary forms of Prakriti or Devi.
Durga destroyed Madhu and Kaitabha through Vishnu. As Mahalakshmi, She destroyed the Asura
Mahisha and as Sarasvati She destroyed Sumbha and Nisumbha with their companions
Dhumralochana, Chanda, Munda and Raktabija.
When Vishnu and Mahadeva destroyed various Asuras, the power of Devi was behind
them. Devi took Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra and gave them necessary Sakti to proceed with the
work of creation, preservation and destruction. She is at the centre of the universe. She is in
Muladhara Chakra in our bodies. She vitalises the body through the Sushumna. She vitalises the
universe from the summit of Mount Meru.
In this system of Sakti philosophy, Siva is omnipresent, impersonal, inactive. He is pure

consciousness. Sakti is dynamic. Siva and Sakti are related as Prakasa and Vimarsa. Sakti or
Vimarsa is the power that is latent in the pure consciousness. Vimarsa gives rise to the world of
distinctions. Siva is Chit. Sakti is Chidrupini. Brahma, Vishnu and Siva do their functions of
creation, preservation and destruction in obedience to Sakti. Sakti is endowed with Iccha (will),
Jnana (knowledge) and Kriya (action). Siva and Sakti are one. Sakti Tattva and Siva Tattva are
inseparable. Siva is always with Sakti. There are thirtysix Tattvas, in Sakti philosophy. Sakti is in
Sakti Tattva, Nada in Sadakhya Tattva, Bindu in Isvara Tattva. The creative aspect of the Supreme
Siva is called Siva Tattva. Siva Tattva is the first creative movement. Sakti Tattva is the will of Siva.
It is the seed and womb of the entire world.
The first manifestation is called the Sadakhya or Sadasiva Tattva. In this Tattva there is the
beginning of formation of ideas. There is Nada Sakti in this Tattva. Next comes Isvara Tattva. This
Tattva is called Bindu. The fourth Tattva is Vidya or Suddhavidya. Then Prakriti modifies into the
Tattvas of mind, senses and the matter which constitutes the world.
44
Nada, Bindu are all names for different aspects of Sakti. Nada is really Siva Sakti. Siva has
two aspects. In one aspect, He is the supreme changeless one who is Satchidananda. This is Para
Samvit. In the other aspect, He changes as the world. The cause of the change is Siva Tattva. This
Siva Tattva and Sakti Tattva are inseparable. Sakti Tattva is the first dynamic aspect of Brahman.
Nishkala Siva is Nirguna Siva. He is not connected with the creative Sakti. Sakala Siva is
associated with the creative Sakti. Maya or Prakriti is within the womb of Sakti. Maya is the matrix
of the world. Maya is potential in the state of dissolution. She is dynamic in creation. Maya evolves
into the several material elements and other physical parts of all sentient creatures under the
direction of Sakti. There are thirtysix Tattvas in Sakti philosophy. In Sakti philosophy we have
Brahman, Sakti, Nada, Bindu and Suddhamaya. In Saiva Siddhanta philosophy we have Siva,
Sakti, Sadakhya and the Suddhamaya. The rest of the evolution in Sakti philosophy is the same as in
Saiva Siddhanta philosophy.
Knowledge of Sakti leads to salvation. “Saktijnanam vina devi nirvanam naiva jayate—O
Devi without the knowledge of Sakti, Mukti cannot be attained” (Isvara says to Devi). The Jiva or
the individual soul thinks when he is under the influence of Maya that he is the doer and the enjoyer
and identifies himself with the body. Through the grace of Sakti and through Sadhana or
self-culture, the individual soul frees himself from all fetters, attains spiritual insight and merges
himself in the Supreme.
There is in reality nothing but the One Self. The experienced is nothing but the experiencer.
Brahman appears as the world through the mirror of mind or Maya. An object is nothing but the One
Self appearing through Maya as non-self, to itself as subject. Triputi or knower, knowledge and
knowable vanishes in Nirvikalpa Samadhi. Supreme Siva or Brahman alone exists.
In the Kenopanishad, it is said that the gods became puffed up with a victory over the
Asuras. They wrongly took the success to be the result of their own valour and prowess. The Lord
wanted to teach them a lesson. He appeared before them in the form of a Yaksha, a huge form, the
beginning and end of which were not visible. The Devas wanted to find out the identity of this form
and sent Agni for this purpose. The Yaksha asked Agni: “What is your name and power?” Agni
replied: “I am Agni (Jatavedas). I can burn up the whole universe in a minute.” The Yaksha placed
before Agni a dry blade of grass and asked him to burn it. Agni was nor able to burn it. He ran away
from the Yaksha in shame. The gods then sent Vayu to enquire who the Yaksha was. Vayu
approached the Yaksha. The Yaksha said to Vayu: “Who are you? What is your power?” Vayu said:
“I am wind-god. I can blow up the whole world in a minute.” The Yaksha then placed a blade of
grass before Vayu and told him to blow that away. Vayu could not make it move an inch from its
place. He left the place in shame. Last of all came Indra himself. When Indra reached the place, he
found that the Yaksha had vanished.
Then Uma appeared before Indra and revealed to him the real identity of the Yaksha. She
said to Indra: “It is the power of the Divine Mother and not that of the gods that crowned the gods
with victory. It is the Sakti or Uma or Haimavati, sister of Krishna, that is the source of the strength
of all the gods.” Sakti is the great teacher of Jnana. She sheds wisdom on her devotees.
45
May you all obtain the grace of Sakti or the Universal Mother and enjoy the supreme bliss of
the final emancipation.
II
Sakti is Chidrupini. She is pure, blissful Consciousness. She is the Mother of Nature. She is
Nature itself. She is power of Lord Siva or Brahman. She runs this world-show. She maintains the
sportive play or Lila of the Lord. She is Jagat-Janani (creator of the world), Mahishasuramardini
(destroyer of Mahishasura) Bhranti-nasini (destroyer of illusion or Avidya), and Daridrya-nasini
(destroyer of poverty).
Devi is Sakti of Lord Siva. She is Jada Sakti and Chit Sakti. She is Iccha Sakti, Kriya Sakti
and Jnana Sakti. She is Maya Sakti. Sakti is Prakriti, Maya, Mahamaya, Sri Vidya. Sakti is
Brahman itself. She is Lalita, Kundalini, Rajesvari, Tripurasundari, Sati and Parvati. Sati
manifested to Lord Siva in the ten forms as the Dasa Maha Vidyas, viz., Kali, Bagalamukhi,
Chinnamasta, Bhuvanesvari, Matangi, Shodasi, Dhumavati, Tripurasundari, Tara and Bhairavi.
Worship of Sakti or Saktism is one of the oldest and most widespread religions in the world.
Everybody in this world wants power, loves to possess power. He is elated by power. He wants to
domineer over others through power. War is the outcome of greed for power. Scientists are
followers of Saktism. He who wishes to develop will-power and charming personality, is a follower
of Saktism. In reality, every man in this world is a follower of Saktism.
Scientists say now that everything is energy only and that energy is the physical ultimate of
all forms of matter. The followers of the Sakta school of philosophy have said the same thing, long
ago. They further say that this energy is only a limited manifestation of the Infinite Supreme Power
of Maha Sakti.
Sakti is always with Siva. They are inseparable like fire and heat. Sakti evolves Nada and
Nada Bindu. The world is a manifestation of Sakti. Suddha Maya is Chit Sakti. Prakriti is Jada
Sakti. Nada, Bindu and the rest are only names for different aspects of Sakti.
The countless universes are only dust of Divine Mother’s holy feet. Her glory is ineffable.
Her splendour is indescribable. Her greatness is unfathomable. She showers Her grace on Her
sincere devotees. She leads the individual soul from Chakra to Chakra, from plane to plane and
unifies him with Lord Siva in the Sahasrara.
The body is Sakti. The needs of the body are the needs of Sakti. When a man enjoys, it is
Sakti who enjoys through him. His eyes, ears, hands and feet are Hers. She sees through his eyes,
hears through his ears. Body, mind, Prana, egoism, intellect, organs and all the other functions are
Her manifestations.
Saktism speaks of personal and the impersonal aspects of Godhead. Brahman is Nishkala or
without Prakriti and Sakala or with Prakriti. The Vedantin speaks of Nirupadhika Brahman (Pure
Nirguna Brahman without Maya) and Sopadhika Brahman (with Upadhi or Maya) or Saguna
Brahman. It is all the same. Names only are different. It is a play of words or Sabda Jalam. People
46
fight on word only, carry on lingual warfare, hair-splitting, logical chopping and intellectual
gymnastics. In reality the essence is one. Clay is the truth. All the modifications such as pot, etc., are
in name only. In Nirguna Brahman, Sakti is potential, whereas in Saguna Brahman, it is kinetic or
dynamic.
The basis of Saktism is the Veda. Saktism upholds that the only source and authority
(Pramana) regarding transcendental or supersensual matters such as the nature of Brahman, etc., is
Veda. Saktism is only Vedanta. The Saktas have the same spiritual experience as that of a Vedantin.
The Devi-Sukta of the Rig-Veda, the Sri-Sukta, Durga-Sukta, Bhu-Sukta and Nila-Sukta,
and the specific Sakta Upanishads such as Tripuratapini Upanishad, Sitopanishad, Devi Upanishad,
Saubhagya-Upanishad, Sarasvati Upanishad, Bhavanopanishad, Bhavrichopanishad, etc.,
emphatically declare about the Mother-aspect of God. The Kena Upanishad also speaks of Uma
(Haimavati) who imparted wisdom of the Self to Indra and the Devas.
Divine Mother is everywhere triple. She is endowed with the three Gunas, viz., Sattva,
Rajas and Tamas. She manifests as Will (Iccha Sakti), Action (Kriya Sakti) and Knowledge (Jnana
Sakti). She is Brahma Sakti (Sarasvati) in conjunction with Brahma, Vishnu Sakti (Lakshmi) in
conjunction with Lord Vishnu, and Siva Sakti (Gauri) in conjunction with Lord Siva. Hence She is
called Tripurasundari.
The abode of Tripurasundari, the Divine Mother is called Sri Nagara. This magnificent
abode is surrounded by twentyfive ramparts, which represent the twentyfive Tattvas. The
resplendent Chintamani palace is in the middle. The Divine Mother sits in the Bindu Pitha in Sri
Chakra in that wonderful palace. There is a similar abode for Her in the body of man also. The
whole world is Her body. Mountains are Her bones. Rivers are Her veins. Ocean is Her bladder. Sun
and moon are Her eyes. Wind is Her breath. Agni is Her mouth.
The Sakti enjoys Bhukti (enjoyment in the world) and Mukti (liberation from all worlds).
Siva is an embodiment of Bliss and Knowledge. Siva Himself appears in the form of man with a
life—mixture of pleasure and pain. If you remember this point always, all dualism, all hatred,
jealousy, pride will vanish. You must consider every human function as worship or a religious act.
Answering calls of nature, talking, eating, walking, seeing, hearing, become worship of Lord, if you
develop the right attitude. It is Siva who works in and through man. Where then is egoism or
individuality? All human actions are divine actions. One universal life throbs in the hearts of all,
sees in the eyes of all, works in the hands of all, hears in the ears of all. What a magnificent
experience it is, if one can feel this by crushing this little ‘I’! The old Samskaras, the old Vasanas,
the old habits of thinking, stand in the way of your realising this experience—Whole.
The aspirant thinks that the world is identical with the Divine Mother. He moves about
thinking his own form to be the form of the Divine Mother and thus beholds oneness everywhere.
He also feels that the Divine Mother is identical with Para Brahman.
The advanced Sadhaka feels: “I am the Devi and the Devi is in me”. He worships himself as
Devi instead of adoring any external object. He says: “Sa-aham—I am She (Devi)”.
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Saktism is not a mere theory or philosophy. It prescribes systematic Sadhana of Yoga,

regular discipline, according to the temperament, capacity and degree of evolution of the Sadhaka.
It helps the aspirant to arouse the Kundalini and unite Her with Lord Siva and enjoy the Supreme
Bliss or Nirvikalpa Samadhi. When Kundalini sleeps, man is awake to the world. He has objective
consciousness. When She awakes, he sleeps. He loses all consciousness of the world and becomes
one with the Lord. In Samadhi, the body is maintained by the nectar which flows from the union of
Siva and Sakti with Sahasrara.
Guru is indispensable for the practice of Sakti Yoga Sadhana. He initiates the aspirant and
transmits the divine Sakti.
Physical contact with a female is gross Maithuna. This is due to Pasu Bhava or animal
disposition or brutal instinct. Mother Kundalini Sakti unites with Lord Siva in Sahasrara during
Nirvikalpa Samadhi. This is real Maithuna or blissful union. This is due to Divya Bhava or divine
disposition. You must rise from Pasu Bhava to Divya Bhava, through Satsanga, service of Guru,
renunciation and dispassion, discrimination, Japa and meditation.
Worship of the Divine Mother with intense faith and perfect devotion and self-surrender
will help you to attain Her grace. Through Her grace alone, you can attain knowledge of the
Imperishable.
Glory to Tripurasundari, the World-Mother, who is also Raja-Rajesvari and Lalita Devi.
May Her blessings be upon you all!
Siva and Sakti
Sakti Tattva is really the negative aspect of the Siva Tattva. Though they are spoken of
separately they are really one. Sakti Tattva is the will of Siva.
Ambal, Ambika, Gauri, Jnanambika, Durga, Kali, Rajesvari, Tripurasundari are all other
names for Sakti. Sakti is Herself pure, blissful consciousness and is nature itself born of the creative
play of Her thought. This Sakti cult is the conception of God as the Universal Mother.
Sakti is spoken of as Mother, because that is the aspect of the Supreme in which She is
regarded as the genetrix and nourisher of the universe. But God is neither male nor female. He is
named according to the body in which He is manifested.
Hinduism is the only religion in the world which has emphasised much the motherhood of
God. The Devi-Sukta appears in the tenth Mandala of the Rig-Veda. It was revealed by Bak, the
daughter of Maharshi Ambrin. In this Rigvedic hymn addressed to the Divine Mother, Bak speaks
of her realisation of God as Mother who pervades the whole universe. In Bengal, Mother-worship is
very prevalent. ‘Ma’ is always on the lips of every Bengali.
Siva and Sakti are essentially one. It is said in the very first verse of Kalidasa’s Raghuvamsa
that Sakti and Siva stand to each other in the same relationship as the word and its meaning. Just as
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heat and fire are inseparable, so Sakti and Siva are inseparable. Lord Siva cannot do anything
without Sakti. This is emphasised by Sri Sankaracharya in the first verse of Saundarya Lahari.
Sakti is like the snake with motion. Siva is like the motionless snake. Waveless ocean is
Siva. Ocean with waves is Sakti. The transcendental Supreme Being is Siva. The manifested,
immanent aspect of the Supreme is Sakti. Siva is attributeless. He is Nishkriya. Sakti is with
attributes. She creates. Sakti is compared to a rope made up of tricoloured threads.
Mother Kali dances on the breast of Siva. She has terrible form but She is not really terrible.
She is all-merciful and gentle. She wears a garland made up of the skulls. What does this mean? She
wears the heads of Her devotees. How loving and affectionate She is to Her devotees!
Kali is the Divine Mother. She is the Sakti or power of Lord Siva. She is the dynamic aspect
of Siva. Siva is the static aspect. Lord Siva is like a dead corpse. What does this signify? He is
absolutely calm, motionless, breathless, with His eyes closed in Samadhi. He is actionless,
changeless. He is untouched by the cosmic play or Lila that is eternally going on, on His breast.
He is absolutely dead to the world. He is beyond the three Gunas. There is no duality, no
plurality, no relativity, no differentiation between subject and object, no distinction, no difference,
no Triputi, no Dvandvas, no Raga-Dvesha, no good and evil in Him. He is ever pure, Nirlipta
(unattached). And yet He is the source, substratum, support, first cause for this universe. He simply
gazes. Sakti is vitalised. She works and creates. In His mere presence Sakti keeps up the play of this
universe or Lila. The whole world is a mere vibration or Spandana in Him. He is superconscious
and yet He has cosmic consciousness. He constitutes all the names and forms and yet He is above all
names and forms. This is a great marvel and a supreme mystery which cannot be comprehended by
the finite intellect.
Without Siva, Sakti has no existence and without Sakti, Siva has no expression. It is through
Sakti that the Impersonal Supreme Being Siva or Nirguna Brahman becomes the Personal Being or
Saguna Brahman. Siva or Nirguna Brahman becomes the Personal Being or Saguna Brahman. Siva
is the Soul of Durga or Kali. Durga or Kali is identical with Siva. Siva is Satchidananda. Durga or
Kali is Satchidananda Mayi. Siva and Sakti are one and neither is higher than the other. Sakti is
Chit, Chidrupini, Chinmatra Rupini.
Siva and Parvati
O Devi! all auspicious one, giver of success and prosperity, we bow to Thee! Shower peace
and amity on this earth and protect us ever more by Your kind compassion at a glance!
The daughter of the king of Parvatas, Himavan is Parvati. She is the wife or Sakti of Lord
Siva. She is the matrix of the universe. She is the revealer of Brahman. She is not only Loka-Mata or
World-Mother but also Brahma-Vidya. One of Her names is Sivajnana-Pradayini. She is also called
Sivaduti, Sivaradhya, Sivamurti and Sivankari.
The grace of Devi is an indispensable factor for the attainment of God-realisation. Parvati or
Sakti is all-in-all. You must rouse the Sakti by Yoga. Then the grace of Sakti will lead you to
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God-realisation and the attainment of the final emancipation and the achievement of infinite,
eternal supreme bliss.
The glorious story of Parvati is related in detail in the Mahesvara Kanda of the Skanda
Purana. Sati, the daughter of Daksha Prajapati, the son of Brahma, was wedded to Lord Siva.
Daksha did not like his son-in-law on account of His queer form, strange manners and peculiar
habits. Daksha performed a sacrifice. He did not invite his daughter and son-in-law. Sati felt the
insult and went to Her father and questioned him. He gave Her a displeasing reply. Sati got enraged
at this. She did not want any more to be called his daughter. She preferred to offer Her body to fire
and to be born again as Parvati to marry Siva. She created fire through Her Yoga’s power and
destroyed Herself in that Yogagni.
Lord Siva sent Virabhadra. He destroyed the sacrifice and drove away all the Devas who
assembled there. The head of Daksha was cut off and thrown into the fire. Lord Siva had a goat’s
head stuck to the body of Daksha at the request of Brahma.
Lord Siva repaired to the Himalayas to do austerities. Asura Taraka had a boon from
Brahma that he should die only at the hands of the son of Siva and Parvati. Therefore the Devas
requested Himavan to have Sati as his daughter. Himavan agreed. Sati was born as Parvati, the
daughter of Himavan. She served Lord Siva during His penance and worshipped Him. Lord Siva
married Parvati.
Narada proceeded to Kailasa and saw Siva and Parvati with one body, half male, half female
in the form of Ardhanarisvara. He wanted to see their play at dice. Lord Siva said He won the game.
Parvati said that She was victorious. There was a quarrel. Siva left Parvati and went to practise
austerities. Parvati assumed the form of a huntress and met Siva. Siva fell in love with the huntress.
He went with her to her father to get his consent for the marriage. Narada informed Lord Siva that
the huntress was Parvati. Narada told Parvati to apologise to Her Lord. They were reunited.
Siva assumed the form of Arunachala hill as a Linga. He subdued the pride of Brahma and
Vishnu who were quarrelling as to their relative greatness. Arunachala is a Tejolinga. Parvati saw
Siva as Arunachala-Isvara. Siva took Parvati back to His side and made Her again Ardhanari.
Asura Taraka greatly oppressed the Devas. Mahi-Sagara-Sangama-Kshetra was his capital.
Lord Subrahmanya, the second son of Parvati, killed the Asura on the seventh day after his birth.
Parvati created a child with the face of an elephant for Her pleasure. He was Lord Ganesa.
He was made the Lord of all creatures to remove their obstacles. One day Lord Siva offered a fruit
saying that it would be given to that child who would go round the world first. Lord Subrahmanya
proceeded on a tour round the world. Lord Ganesa went round His father Siva, the Maha Linga who
enveloped the whole universe, and got the fruit.
Parvati had a dark skin. One day Lord Siva playfully referred to Her dark colour. She was
much touched by Siva’s remark. She went to the Himalayas to perform austerities. She attained a
beautiful complexion and came to be called Gauri. Gauri joined Siva as Ardhanarisvara by the
grace of Brahma.
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One day Parvati came behind Lord Siva and closed His eyes. The whole universe lost life
and light. Siva asked Parvati to practise austerities in order to make amends for Her folly. She
proceeded to Kanchi (Kanjivaram) and did rigorous penance. Lord Siva created a flood. The Siva
Linga which Parvati was worshipping was about to be washed away. She embraced the Linga. The
Linga remained there as Ekambaresvara. She remained there as Kamakshi for the welfare of the
world.
Parvati ever dwells with Siva as His Sakti. She is the Divine Mother of this universe. She
sheds wisdom and grace on Her devotees and makes them attain union with Her Lord. Salutations to
Parvati and Siva, the real Parents of all beings.
The Divine Mother
Children are more familiar with the mother than with the father. Mother is an embodiment
of affection, tenderness and love. She looks after the wants of the children. Whenever a child wants
anything it approaches the mother rather than the father. In spiritual matters also the aspirant has
more concern with Mother Kali than Father Siva. Siva is indifferent to the external world. He is
unattached. He is lost in Samadhi with His eyes closed. It is Sakti or the Divine Mother alone who
really looks after the affairs of the world. She will introduce to Her Lord for the attainment of final
emancipation when She is pleased with the earnestness of the devotee.
Siva and Sakti are inseparable. This is shown in Ardhanarisvara—Siva and Parvati (with
one body, half-male and half-female). Lord Siva has Parvati as the left half of His body.
Siva-Jnana leads us on to the realisation of Self and bestows on us eternal bliss and frees us
from births and deaths. It shows us the light of life. It is the eye of intuition. It is the third eye of Siva.
This third eye destroys all illusions and passions.
Sakti is thought of in various forms. Sarasvati is the Goddess of learning. Lakshmi is the
Goddess of wealth. Parvati or Uma is the bliss-bestowing Goddess.
The Markandeya Purana contains seven hundred verses which are known as the Sapta-sati
or the Chandi or the Devi-Mahatmya. It is one of the most famous religious texts of the Hindus. It
ranks almost equal with the Gita. It describes in an allegorical form, that in the path of salvation the
chief obstacles are our own desire, anger, greed and ignorance and we can overcome them through
the grace of Divine Mother if we sincerely worship Her.
The book gives a beautiful description of the three aspects of the Mother as Mahakali,
Mahalakshmi and Maha Sarasvati—the Tamasic, the Rajasic and the Sattvic aspects of the Divine
Mother.
The Devas were oppressed by the Asuras. The gods invoked the blessings of Divine Mother.
She appeared as the above three forms and destroyed the Asuras and protected the gods. The Divine
Mother has given men as well as gods, Her definite and infallible promise that whenever they would
remember Her in danger or difficulties She would save them.
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Sakti Energises the Trimurtis
O Lord Siva! Silent adorations unto Thee! Thou art the only refuge, the only object of
adoration, the one Governor of the Universe, the self-effulgent Being. Thou art the creator,
preserver and destroyer of the universe. Thou art the Highest, the Immovable, the Absolute.
Sakti is the energy or the vital power that makes any activity possible. When a man does any
work he does it only by virtue of his Sakti. If he is unable to do the work he says that he has no Sakti
to do that work. Hence Sakti is that which enables one to work. Sakti is Devi. Sakti is the Divine
Mother. Mind is Sakti. Prana is Sakti. Will is Sakti.
Devi Bhagavata deals with the forms of Prakriti. Devi took the Trimurtis to Her abode in
Manidvipa, gave them their consorts Sarasvati, Lakshmi and Parvati and sent out for the life of
universe in the new Kalpa.
Lord Narayana created Brahma from His navel. Brahma did not know what to do. Vishnu
and Siva also did not know how to set going the life of a new universe in a new Kalpa after the
dissolution. They were lifted in a Vimana or celestial car and they soon reached a strange region
where they were transformed into women. They were in a land of women headed by Devi. It was
Manidvipa in the Sudha Samudra, the ocean of nectar. The newly made women stayed there, for a
hundred years. They did not know who they were, why they were there and what they were to do.
Then they were put in the company of men and they themselves became men. They were
coupled, Brahma with Sarasvati, Vishnu with Lakshmi and Siva with Parvati. They found
themselves at once in their original place and they knew what to do. They understood their
functions. The Trimurtis attain Sakti through association with the Devi.
Parvati is the Sakti of Lord Siva who bestows Jnana and Mukti on men. Lakshmi is the Sakti
of Vishnu who gives prosperity to the people. Sarasvati is the Sakti of Brahma who creates the
world. Radha is the Sakti of Lord Krishna who leads humanity to Mukti through Bhakti.
May Sakti bless you all with Sakti!
Mother Ganga
The Ganga is the most sacred river of India. Lord Krishna says in the Gita: “I am the Ganga
among rivers”. No germ can flourish in the waters of the Ganga. It is saturated with antiseptic
minerals. In the West, doctors prescribe Ganga water for rubbing in the treatment of diseases of the
skin. Ganga is not merely a river. It is a sacred Tirtha. It is possessed of mysterious powers which
are not found in any other rivers of the world. Even scientists have admitted the efficacy of the
Ganga water.
Dr. F.C. Harrison of McGill University, Canada, writes: “A peculiar fact, which has never
been satisfactorily explained, is the quick death (in three or five hours) of the cholera vibrio in the
waters of Ganga. When one remembers sewage, by numerous corpses of natives (often dead of
cholera) and by the bathing of thousands of natives, it seems remarkable that the belief of the
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Hindus, that the water of this river is pure and cannot be defiled, and that they can safely drink it and
bathe in it, should be confirmed by means of modern bacteriological research.” A well-known
French physician Dr. D. Herelle, made similar investigations into the mystery of the Ganga. He
observed some of the floating corpses of men dead of dysentery and cholera and was surprised to
find that only a few feet below the bodies, where one would expect to find millions of these
dysentery and cholera germs, there were no germs at all. He then grew germs from patients having
the disease and to these cultures added water from the Ganga. When he incubated the mixture for a
period, much to his surprise, the germs were completely destroyed.
A British physician Dr. C.E. Nelson, F.R.C.S. tells us of another striking fact. He says:
“Ships leaving Calcutta for England take their water from the Hugli river which is one of the
mouths of the filthy Ganga and this Ganga water will remain fresh all the way to England. On the
other hand, ships leaving England for India, find that the water they take on in London will not stay
fresh till they reach Bombay, the nearest Indian port, which is a week closer to England than
Calcutta. They must replenish their water supply at Port Said, Suez or at Aden on the Red Sea. It is
no wonder that the Indian people should hold that the Ganga is very sacred and possessed of
mysterious powers.”
For a Hindu the word ‘Ganga’ has its own sacred association. Every Hindu thirsts for a dip
in the Ganga, and for a drop of water at the time of his death. Aspirants and mendicants build their
huts on the banks of the Ganga for practising penance, and meditation. Bhishma spoke very highly
on the glory of the Ganga in his parting instructions to the Pandavas from his bed of arrows.
Whenever a pious Hindu goes to take his bath, he invokes first the Ganga, and feels Her
presence in the water before he takes a plunge in the river. If he lives in a place far away from the
Ganga, he intensely yearns to see Her on some day and feels blessed by bathing in the holy waters.
He carries some water to his house and carefully saves it in a vessel so that he may use it for
purposes of purification.
Hindus believe that all their sins are washed away if they take a dip in the sacred waters of
the Ganga.
In the Satya Yuga, all places were sacred. In the Treta Yuga, Pushkara was considered as the
most holy place. In the Dvapara Yuga, Kurukshetra was regarded as the most sacred place. In Kali
Yuga, the Ganga has that glory. Devi Bhagavata says: “He who utters the name of Ganga even from
hundreds of miles afar, is freed from sins and attains the abode of Lord Hari”.
The Ganga comes out of the Supreme Being. She enters the feet of Lord Hari and reaches
Vaikuntha. She issues from Goloka and passes through the regions of Vishnu, Brahma, Siva,
Dhruva, Chandra, Surya, Tapah, Janah, Mahah, and reaching Indraloka flows as Mandakini.
The Ganga entered the matted locks of Lord Siva at the request of Bhagiratha who did
rigorous penance for the descent of Ganga to Patala for the redemption of his ancestors, the
thousand sons of Sagara, who had been burnt to ashes by sage Kapila.
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Thereupon, She flowed down from the locks of Lord Siva. She was drunk up by the sage
Jahnu, as the water inundated the Yajnasala of the sage. Then again She issued out of the ear of the
sage and acquired the name of Jahnavi. She is also known by the name Bhagirathi, daughter of
Bhagiratha. The Ganga flowed into Patala as Bhagirathi. The ancestors of the king were raised to
Svarga by the touch of the sacred waters of the Ganga.
Ganga had to take a human form on account of Her own fault in behaviour in the presence of
Brahma. She became the wife of Santanu. Santanu also was a celestial being known as king
Mahabhisha. He had to take birth in the world for his fault in conduct in the presence of Brahma by
showing vanity. Ganga gave birth to Bhishma, the illustrious hero and sage.
Ganga consented to bear the seed of Lord Siva which was transferred to Her by Agni. She
gave to the world Lord Subrahmanya, the great commander of the army of Devas, who killed the
formidable Asura Taraka.
Ganga is the form of Vishnu. Her sight is soul-stirring and elevating. She flows in the
valleys and lives by the side of Parvati, daughter of Himavan. How magnificent She is when She
flows in the valley of Rishikesh! She has a blue colour like that of the ocean. The water is extremely
clear and sweet. Rich people from the plains get water from Rishikesh. They take it in big
copper-vessels to far off places in India.
To have a look at the Ganga in Rishikesh, is soul-elevating. To sit for a few minutes on a
block of stone by the side of the Ganga, is a blessing. To stay for some months in Rishikesh on the
bank of the Ganga and do Anushthana or Purascharana, is great Tapes which will take the aspirant
to the abode of Lord Hari. To live for ever on the banks of the Ganga and spend the life in meditation
is Sivanandam.
May Mother Ganga bless you all! May She help you to live on Her banks and practise Yoga
and Tapas!
Tripura Rahasya
The three cities are Anava Mala (egoism), Karma (bondage of Karma) and Maya (the
illusory power of Lord Siva which veils the individual souls). Destroy the first city Anava Mala
through self-surrender to Lord Siva and consequent descent of His grace (Anugraha). Annihilate
the second impurity, viz., Karma, through consecrating the fruits of your actions to the Lord and
destroying the idea ‘I am the doer’, by developing the Nimitta Bhava, the Bhava that Lord Siva is
working through your various organs and that you are a mere instrument in His hands (Chariyai and
Kiriyai). You will not be bound by actions. You will attain purity of heart and through purity of
heart, realisation of Sivanandam or eternal bliss of Siva. Annihilate the third impurity, viz., Maya,
through the recitation of Panchakshara, worship of Guru, hearing and reflection of the attributes of
the Lord and His various Lilas and meditation on His form and Satchidananda aspect.
This is the destruction of the three cities or castles. This is Tripura Rahasya.
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Destroy Tamas through Rajas and convert Rajas into Sattva, by developing various virtuous
qualities, by taking Sattvic food, by Satsanga, Japa of Panchakshara and meditation on Lord Siva.
Transcend Sattva also. You will attain oneness with Lord Siva.
Annihilate the evil tendencies or Asubha Vasanas, viz., lust, anger, greed, hatred, jealousy,
through Subha Vasanas or good tendencies, viz., Japa, meditation, study of religious books, Kirtan
or singing Lord’s praise. You will enjoy the eternal bliss of Siva.
Serve the Guru. Purify your heart by serving him with faith and devotion. Learn the Yogic
practices which lead to the awakening of Kundalini from him and practise them. Study the Yoga
Sastras under him. Observe celibacy. Kill the Shadripus or six enemies. Look within. Take the
Kundalini through the Sushumna Nadi and break the Granthis through the Chakras and unite Her
with Her Lord Sadasiva at the Sahasrara Chakra at the crown of the head and enjoy the eternal bliss
of Lord Siva.
Kill the three bodies, i.e., transcend the three bodies, viz., the gross or physical body (Sthula
Deha), subtle body (Sukshma Deha) and causal body (Karana Sarira). Go above the five sheaths or
Kosas (Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya and Anandamaya), through meditation
on Lord Siva and attain Siva Sayujya.
Become a witness of the three states, viz., waking, dreaming and deep sleep states. Stand as
a spectator. Withdraw yourself from the objective consciousness. Live within. Attain the Turiya
state or the fourth state or Siva Pada.
Go above physical consciousness, subconsciousness and mental consciousness and attain

the superconsciousness state or Nirvikalpa or Asamprajnata Samadhi.
Go above instinct, reason, understanding and open the eye of intuition, the third eye of Siva
(Divya Chakshus) and merge yourself in the supreme light of Siva. Go above thinking, willing and
feeling and enter the supreme silence or thoughtless state of Siva Nirvana.
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Tripura Sundari is the Sakti of Lord Siva. She and Siva are one. She is extremely beautiful.
She attracts the devotees to Her blissful Self and sheds wisdom, devotion and divine light on them.
Hence, She is called Tripura Sundari. She helps the aspirants to destroy the three cities or castles
mentioned above.
The whole world is under Her control. The entire universe is under the sway of Her three
Gunas. All the ties and bonds of Karma can be broken down; the wheel of births and deaths can be
rent asunder only by Her worship and benign grace. All sins can be destroyed and the eternal bliss
of Siva can be realised only through singing Her praise and repetition of Her Names.
She is called Tripura, the three cities. The body of a man or a woman is one of the forms
assumed by Her. The whole world is Her body. All the Devas are Her forms only. All the triplets of
the sacred texts are contained in Her. The triplets, viz., the three Gunas, the three states of
consciousness, the three fires, the three bodies, the three worlds, the triple power (Iccha Sakti, Kriya
Sakti and Jnana Sakti), the three Svaras (Udatta, Anudatta and Svarita), the Trivarnikas, the three
kinds of Karmas (Sanchita, Agami and Prarabdha), the Trimurtis, the three letters A, U, M, and the
triad Pramata, Pramana and Prameya, knower, knowledge and knowable, seer, sight and seen, are
all contained in Tripurasundari.
All the Devatas dwell in this body. They are the presiding deities of the various organs. The
Lord Tryambaka dwells in Muladhara, Jambukesvara in Svadhishthana, Arunachalesvara in
Manipura, Nataraja in Anahata, Kalahastisvara in Visuddha, Visvesvara in Ajna and
Srikanthesvara in Sahasrara.
All the sacred places are in this body—Kedar in the forehead, Amaravati in the tip of the
nose, Kurukshetra in the breasts and Prayaga in the heart.
All the nine planets have their special abodes in the body. Sun is in the Nada-Chakra, moon
in the Bindu-Chakra, Mars in the eyes, Mercury in the heart, Jupiter in the Manipura, Venus in the
Svadhishthana, Saturn in the navel, Rahu in the face and Ketu in the thorax.
Countless rivers and hills are also allotted special places in the body. Whatever is found in
the outer world is found in the body also. This body is microcosm. It is Pindanda.
This is Tripura Rahasya.
May you attain the grace of Tripurasundari and understand the Tripura Rahasya and attain
Sivananda or eternal bliss of Lord Siva.
Kamakshi and the Dumb Poet
The word ‘Muka’ means dumb. A certain devotee was performing rigorous austerities in the
temple of Goddess Kamakshi at Kanchi to obtain Her Grace. Kamakshi appeared in the form of a
beautiful maiden before the devotee to bless him. The devotee took Her to be an ordinary human
maiden and did not show any veneration. She left him and found a person sleeping in another corner
of the temple. He was dumb from his birth. She woke him up. He was extremely joyous when he
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saw Her. The Goddess wrote the Bijakshara on his tongue and blessed him with the power of
speech. He became the celebrated Muka Kavi (dumb poet). He sang five hundred verses called the
Panchasati which describe the glory of Devi, of Her lotus-feet, of Her grace, of Her gracious glance
and of Her loving maternal smile. One hundred verses are devoted to each of these five aspects.
Hence the work is called ‘Mukapanchasati’.
The dumb poet became the Acharya of the Kama Koti Pitha at Kumbakonam and occupied
the seat for thirtynine years.
The Mukapanchasati is read with intense devotion during the Navaratri celebrations in
South India by all religious-minded persons.
Kalidasa was an unlettered shepherd. He also was turned into India’s most talented poet
through the benign grace of Mother Kali. Kalidasa in his famous Syamaladandaka, has praised Devi
in a charming manner.
Glory to the Devi who is the giver of the power of speech!
Hymn for Forgiveness to Mother
Mother is more dear to the child than the father. Mother is gentle, soft, sweet, tender and
affectionate. She is full of smiles. Father is stiff, harsh, rude, rough and hard-hearted. The child runs
towards the mother for getting presents, sweets, fruits and other gifts. The child can open the heart
more freely towards the mother than to the father.
Even so, poets and saints also are more familiar with the Divine Mother than with the Divine
Father. They open their heart more freely towards the Divine Mother. They have found much more
intimate cries of the heart when they speak of the Deity as their Mother, than when they address
themselves to God as Father. Go through the following hymn to Mother by Sri Sankara. You will
feel and realise the truth of the above statement.
By my ignorance of Thy commands

By my poverty and sloth
I had not the power to do that which I should have done
Hence my omission to worship Thy feet
But O Mother, auspicious deliverer of all
All this should be forgiven,
For, a bad son may sometimes be born, but a bad mother never.
O Mother! Thou hast many sons on earth

But I, Thy son, am of no worth
Yet it is not meet, that Thou shouldst abandon me
O Mother of the world! O Mother!

I have not worshipped Thy feet
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Nor have I given abundant wealth to Thee

Yet the affection which Thou bestowest on me is without compare
Chapter VII
Virasaivism
Virasaiva philosophy is only Sakti Visishtadvaita philosophy. It is a phase of Agamanta. It

underwent radical changes in the hands of Sri Basavanna and his colleagues. Basava was the Prime
Minister to a Jain king named Bijjala who ruled over Kalyan (1157-1167) which is sixty miles from
Gulbarga in Karnataka State.
Basavanna was a magnetic personality. He exercised tremendous influence over the people.
He held a spiritual conference. Three hundred Virasaiva saints assembled. There were sixty women
saints also. Akka Mahadevi, the illustrious lady saint was also present on that grand occasion.
Virasaivism became Lingayatism in the hands of Basava. Lingayatism is the special faith of the
Karnatic Virasaivas. Sharanas are the saints of the Lingayat faith or cult.
Virasaivism or Lingayatism shows the way to attain the Lakshya or Lord Siva. Lord Siva,
Lord Subrahmanya, king Rishabha, Santa Lingar, Kumara Devi, Sivaprakasa had all expounded
lucidly this system of philosophy. Viragama is the chief source for this system of philosophy. Those
who embrace this faith, live in great numbers in Karnataka.
Ordinary Saivites keep the Sivalinga in a box and worship it during the time of Puja. The
Lingayats keep a small Linga in a small silver or golden box and wear it on the body with the chain
attached to the box. Wearing the Linga on the body will remind one, of the Lord and help His
constant remembrance. The Christians wear the cross in the neck. This also has the same object in
view.
Sakti in Virasaiva philosophy is identical with Siva. Sakti works. Siva is the silent witness.
Siva is infinite, self-luminous, eternal, all-pervading. He is an ocean of peace. He is stupendous
silence. Siva illumines everything. He is all-full and self-contained. He is ever free and perfect. The
whole world is an expression of the Divine Will. In Virasaiva philosophy, the world movement is
not an illusion, but an integral play.
Kashmir Saivism
This is known by the name Pratyabhijna system. The Agamas are the basis for Kashmir
Saivism. The Agamanta called Pratyabhijna Darsana, flourished in Kashmir. The twentyeight
Agamas were written in Sanskrit in the valley of Kashmir, in order to make the meaning clear to
every one. This Agamanta arose in North India long before Jainism came into prominence. Then it
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spread westwardly and southwards. In Western India, it was known by the name Vira Mahesvara
Darsanam, and in South India, it was called Suddha Saiva Darsanam.
Siva is the only reality of the universe. Siva is infinite consciousness. He is independent,
eternal, formless, secondless, omnipresent. Siva is the subject and the object, the experiencer and
the experienced. The world exists within consciousness.
God creates by the mere force of His Will. Karma, material cause like Prakriti, Maya which
produce illusion, forms, etc., are not admitted in this system. God makes the world appear in
Himself just as objects appear in a mirror. He is not affected by the objects of His creation, just as
the mirror is not affected by the reflected image in it. He appears in the form of souls by His own
wonderful power inherent in Him. God is the substratum of this world. His activity (Spanda or
vibration) produces all distinctions.
Siva is the changeless Reality. He is the underlying basic substratum for the whole world.
His Sakti or energy has infinite aspects. Chit (intelligence), Ananda (bliss), Iccha (will), Jnana
(knowledge) and Kriya (creative power) are Her chief aspects.
Sakti functions as Chit, then the Absolute becomes the pure experience known as Siva
Tattva. The Ananda of Sakti functions and life comes in. Then there is the second stage of Sakti
Tattva. The third stage is the will for self-expression. Then comes the fourth stage, Isvara Tattva
with its power and will to create the world. It is the stage of conscious experience (Jnana) of being.
In the fifth stage, there is the knower and also the object of knowledge. Action (Kriya) starts now.
This is the stage of Suddha-vidya. There are thirtysix Tattvas or principles in this system.
Bondage is due to ignorance (Ajnana). The soul thinks: ‘I am finite’, ‘I am the body.’ It
forgets that it is identical with Siva and that the world is wholly unreal apart from Siva.
Pratyabhijna or recognition of the reality, is all that is needed for attaining the final
emancipation. When the soul recognises itself as God, it rests in the eternal bliss of oneness with
God. The liberated soul is merged in Siva, as water in water, or milk in milk, when the imagination
of duality has disappeared.
Vasu Gupta (eighth century A.D.) wrote the Siva Sutra and taught it to Kallata. Siva Drishti
written by Somanatha may be considered equal in merit to Tirumandiram of Tirumular. Vasu
Gupta’s Spanda Karika, Somanatha’s Siva Drishti (930 A.D.), Abhinava Gupta’s Paramarthasara
and Pratyabhijna Vimarsini, Kimaraja’s Siva Sutra Vimarsini are some of the important works of
this school.
They accept the Siva Agamas and the Siddhanta works as authoritative. They modify them
in the light of Sankara’s Advaita. Somanatha’s Siva Drishti, Utpala’s Pratyabhijna Sutra and
Abhinava Gupta’s works support non-dualism.
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Chapter VIII
Siva is known by the name ‘Girisa’, as He is the Lord of the Mount Kailasa.
Siva is called ‘Tryambaka’, because He has a third eye in His forehead, the eye of wisdom
(Jnana Chakshus).
The word ‘Hara’ is derived from the root ‘Hru’ to take and the suffix ‘Ati’, for He removes
(Harati) all ills. ‘Hara’ means He who at the time of dissolution (Pralaya) withdraws the world
within Himself.
Siva is holding in His hands Parasu (axe) and deer. He is making with the other two hands
the Vara and the Abhaya Mudras. The deer here is Brahma. Siva is very powerful. Even Brahma is
under His control.
Tripurari
Siva was the destroyer of the Asuras, Tripuras. He destroyed the Tripuras or the three cities
of the Asuras which were built of gold, silver and iron by Maya. The Asuras oppressed all theists,
being protected by the three cities. Siva is called Tripurari because He destroyed the Asuras,
Tripuras, and the cities, Tripuras.
Siva Jyoti
Brahma and Vishnu were one day disputing which of the two was the greater. Siva appeared
in the form of an Infinite Jyoti or fiery Linga, in order to destroy their pride. Brahma and Vishnu set
out to measure the Jyoti. They failed in their attempts.
Nilakantha
When the ocean was churned, a terrible poison came out. Siva swallowed this in order to
save the world. This caused a blue stain on His throat. So He is called by the name Nilakantha.
Ravana And Siva
Ravana was a great devotee of Lord Siva. He used to go everyday to Mount Kailas to
worship Lord Siva. He found this very troublesome. He thought within himself to bring the whole
mountain to his abode in Lanka in order to save himself from the trouble of a daily journey to Mount
Kailas. He began to pull up the mountain which trembled. Parvati, consort of Siva, got frightened.
She embraced Lord Siva. Siva pressed Ravana with His toe and sent him down to the nether world.
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Hari and Siva
Hari used to worship Siva daily with a thousand lotuses. One day one lotus was missing. He
plucked out His own eye to make the number of a thousand. Siva gave Vishnu the Sudarsana
Chakra or discus, being very much pleased with His devotion. It is this Sudarsana Chakra which
Vishnu always bears. This discus is itself an embodiment of devotion.
Brahma’s Boon
A Rakshasa worshipped Brahma and asked Him to grant him the power to destroy the whole
world. Brahma was partially unwilling to grant him this boon. He consented in a half-hearted
manner and asked him to wait. The Devas, hearing this, were terribly frightened and went to Siva
and told Him everything. Siva danced in order to delay the granting of this boon by Brahma, to
distract him and thus save the world.
Birth of Subrahmanya
The Asura Taraka drove all the gods from heaven. The gods went to Brahma. Brahma said
to the gods: “The Asura has acquired his power through my grace. I cannot destroy him. I shall
suggest to you one plan. Go to Lord Siva. He is in Yoga Samadhi. He must be tempted to unite with
Parvati. A powerful son will be born unto Him. He will destroy the Asura”.
Thereupon, Indra asked Cupid (Kama) to go with his wife Rati and his companion Vasanta
(the spring), to Mount Kailas, the abode of Lord Siva. The three persons at once proceeded to
Kailas. Spring season appeared there. All the Rishis were surprised at this. Kama stood behind a
tree and shot an arrow at Siva. At this moment Parvati was worshipping Siva and offering flowers in
His hand. Her hand touched the hands of Siva. Siva felt suddenly a thrill of passion and His seed
came out. Siva was wondering what was it that thus distracted Him from His Yoga. He looked
around and witnessed Kama behind a tree. He opened His third eye. A fire flashed and burnt Kama
to ashes.
Siva’s seed was thrown into Agni (God of Fire). Agni was not able to bear it. He threw it into
the Ganga. Ganga threw it into a forest of reeds where Subrahmanya, called the reed-born (Sara
Janma, Saravana Bhava), was born. Subrahmanya became the commander of the Devas and
destroyed the Asura as Brahma intended.
Lord Siva and Daksha
Daksha goes to attend the sacrifice of the sages who are the progenitors of the world, and not
being honoured by Rudra who has come before him, Daksha reproaches Him and leaves the place.
Nandisvara in his turn, curses Daksha and other Brahmins. Rudra then leaves the place of sacrifice.
Sati, daughter of Daksha, known also by the name Dakshayani, requests Siva’s permission
to attend her father’s sacrifice, the Brihaspati-sava, and Siva shows how inadvisable it would be.
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In spite of her Lord’s advice, Sati goes to Daksha’s sacrifice. Disregarded by her father and
enraged at finding no offering made to Rudra, she praises the greatness of her Lord, censures
Daksha and by the Yoga method casts off her body.
Hearing of Sati’s casting off her body, Sankara creates in His anger Virabhadra out of His
Jata (or matted locks) and causes Daksha’s death.
Informed by the gods of the destruction of Daksha, Brahma pacifies Rudra, and Daksha and
others are revived.
Being pleased with Brahma’s praise, Siva goes along with the gods to the scene of sacrifice;
Daksha and others are revived; Vishnu issuing forth from the sacrificial fire is praised by Daksha
and others. After the closing ceremony of ablutions, the gods return home. Maitreya describes the
benefit of listening to this story, the birth of Sati as Parvati, and that of Skanda.
Dakshinamurti
On the Mount Kailas, with Parvati Devi by His side, Lord Siva was sitting in a hall
beautifully decorated by precious stones. At that time, Devi worshipped the Lord and requested
Him to alter the name of Dakshayani given to her before, for being the daughter of Daksha. This
Daksha was killed by Lord Siva for his disrespect and arrogance. On hearing this request Lord Siva
ordained that Devi should be born as the daughter of Parvata Raj who was doing rigorous Tapas for
getting a child. He also told Parvati that He would come over to her and marry her. Thus ordained,
Parvati Devi was born as the child of Parvata Raj and since her fifth year, began to do rigorous
Tapas for being the bride of Lord Siva.
During the absence of Devi, when Lord Siva was alone, the sons of Brahma, who are sages
Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana and Sanatkumara, came to have Darsana of Lord Siva and prostrated
before Him. They entreated the Lord to teach them the way to remove Avidya and attain salvation.
They expressed that in spite of the vast study of scriptures they had no internal peace and they were
in need of learning the inner secrets, by knowing which they could attain salvation.
Lord Siva, hearing this appeal made by the sages, assumed the form of Dakshinamurti and
remaining as the Guru Supreme, began to teach them the inner secrets by keeping Mouna and
showing the Chinmudra by His hand. The sages began to meditate on the lines shown by the Lord
and attained the state of inexpressible and illimitable joy. Thus Lord Siva came to be known as
Dakshinamurti. May the blessings of Lord Dakshinamurti be upon us all! May you all dive deep and
enjoy the everlasting Peace and Bliss through His Grace!
Tripura Samhara
This occurs in the Karna Parva of the Mahabharata. In times of yore, there was a war
between the Devas and the Asuras. The Asuras were defeated in the battle. The three sons of the
Asura, Taraka, wanted to take revenge on the Devas. They performed rigorous penance and
obtained a boon from Brahma, the creator. By virtue of this boon, they could not be conquered by
any one save somebody who could destroy their three castles by a single arrow.
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They made three castles, one of gold in heaven, the second silver in air, and the third of iron
on earth. They began to oppress the gods and the Rishis. Thereupon, all the gods made a complaint
to Brahma. Brahma replied that no one save Mahadeva who knows Yoga and Sankhya, through
particular penance, could vanquish these Asuras. All the gods approached Mahadeva and provided
Him with a chariot out of all forms of the universe. They also supplied Him with a bow and arrow,
the constituent parts of which were Vishnu, Soma and Agni. They requested Mahadeva to discharge
the arrow against the three castles. Brahma became the charioteer. Mahadeva discharged the arrow
against the three castles. The three castles fell down in the twinkling of an eye. Then all the gods
eulogised Mahadeva and departed to heaven.
Mahadeva said to the gods that He Himself could not destroy the Asuras, as they were very
strong, but that they themselves would be able to vanquish with the help of half His strength. The
gods replied that they could not bear half His strength and that He should take up the task with the
help of half their strength. Mahadeva agreed to this. He became stronger than all the gods. Hence He
was called Mahadeva or the great God.
Lord Siva Curses and Pardons Nakirar
Once, a Pandya king of Madurai felt that his queen’s hair had some kind of natural
fragrance. A doubt arose in his mind as to whether human hair could have natural fragrance, or
could be rendered fragrant only through association with flowers or scents. He went to the Sangham
or the Tamil Academy the next day, suspended a bag containing one thousand gold pieces and said
to the poets that anyone who would write a poem clearing the doubt he entertained in his mind
would get the gold pieces as a prize. Many poets composed poems but they were not able to satisfy
the king.
Darumi, a Brahmin priest in the temple, was extremely poor. He requested Lord Siva thus:
“O all-merciful Lord! I am very poor. I wish to marry now. Relieve me of my poverty. Help me to
get these gold pieces now. I take refuge in Thee alone”. Lord Siva gave him a poem and said: “Take
this poem to the Sangham. You will get the gold pieces”.
The king was immensely pleased with the song as it cleared his doubt, but the Sangham
poets did not accept it. Nakirar, one of them, said that there was a flaw in the poem. The poor priest
was greatly afflicted at heart. He came back to the temple, stood in front of the Lord and said: “O
Lord! Why did You give me the poem which contained a flaw? Nobody will take You for the Lord.
I feel very much for this”. The meaning of the poem is: “O fair-winged bee! You spend your time in
gathering flower-dust. Do not speak out of love, but speak out of truth. Is there any among the
flowers known to you that is more fragrant than the hair of this damsel who is most loving, is of the
colour of the peacock and has beautiful rows of teeth!”
Thereupon, Lord Siva assumed the form of a poet, went to the Sangham and asked: “Which
poet found out flaw in the poem?” Nakirar said: “It is I who said that there is a flaw.” Lord Siva
asked: “What is the flaw?” Nakirar said: “There is no flaw in the composition of words. There is
flaw in the meaning.” Lord Siva said: “May I know what defect is there in the meaning?” Nakirar
said: “The hair of a damsel has no natural fragrance. It gets the fragrance from association with the
flowers.” Lord Siva said: “Does the hair of Padmini also possess fragrance by association with the
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flowers?” Nakirar said, “Yes.” Lord Siva said: “Does the hair of celestial damsels also possess
fragrance by association with the flowers?” Nakirar replied, “Yes. Their hairs become fragrant by
association with Mandara flowers.” Lord Siva said: “Does the hair of Uma Devi who is on the left
side of Lord Siva whom you worship possess fragrance by association with the flowers?” Nakirar
replied: “Yes. Quite so.”
Lord Siva slightly opened His third eye. Nakirar said: “I am not afraid of this third eye. Even
if you are Lord Siva, even if you show eyes throughout your whole body, there is flaw in this
poem.” The fire from the third eye of Lord Siva fell upon Nakirar. Nakirar was not able to bear the
heat. At once he jumped into the neighbouring lotus-tank to cool himself.
Then all the poets approached Lord Siva and said: “O Lord! Pardon Nakirar.” Lord Siva
appeared before Nakirar. Through the grace of Lord Siva his body was rendered cool. He repented
for his mistake and said: “I pointed defect even for the hairs of Uma Devi. No one but the Lord can
pardon me.” He sang a song with intense devotion. Lord Siva entered the tank and brought him to
the shore.
Then Nakirar and other poets gave the purse of gold to Darumi.
Know Your Guru
Devotion to the Lord dawns in the heart of a man who has done virtuous actions in his
previous births without expectation of fruits and egoism or the idea of agency. Devotion leads to
knowledge of the Self (Jnana) and through Jnana, he attains Moksha or the final emancipation.
In days of yore, Virasindhu was the king of Kalinga country. He did severe Tapas,
meditation and Yoga in his previous birth, but did not attain Moksha. He became a Yoga-Bhrashta
as he had to enjoy the fruits of some residual Karmas in this last birth of a King. He took his birth as
the son of a king. When he attained the proper age, he was crowned as the king of Kalinga. He ruled
the kingdom for a period of ten years.
Owing to the force of previous spiritual Samskaras, and the grace of the Lord,
discrimination and dispassion dawned in his heart. He reflected within himself: “I am doing the
same acts of eating, drinking and sleeping. My several forefathers who ruled the country, had been
reduced to dust. I have no peace of mind despite my wealth and dominion. I should get a Guru and
obtain initiation from him to get knowledge of the Atman and reach the abode of immortality and
eternal bliss.
King Virasindhu sent invitation to all Pandits, Sannyasins, Sadhus and Mahatmas. He wrote
in the letter thus: “I will give half of my dominion to that supreme Guru who will give me the right
initiation and make me realise the Self. If he fails to do so he will be put in the prison.”
Many Pandits and Sadhus saw the king. One gave him Taraka Mantra, another gave
Panchakshara, a third gave him Ashtakshara, but no one was able to satisfy the king. He put them all
in the prison. He had initiation into these Mantras in his previous births.
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King Virasindhu became very restless as he did not obtain his Guru. Lord Siva assumed the
form of an ordinary coolie. He had a very black complexion. He wore some rags and appeared
before the king. The king went in advance to receive him. Through the grace of the Lord, he came to
know that this coolie was none other than the Lord. The coolie raised his hand towards the king and
said “stop”, and vanished immediately. The king understood that the Guru has commanded him to
stop the mind and control its movements. The king closed his eyes, while he was standing, and did
not allow the mind to think of the sensual objects. He controlled all the modifications of the mind. It
was easy for him as he had practised Yoga and meditation in his previous birth. He entered into
Nirvikalpa Samadhi and became like a statue. He did not open his eyes.
The ministers were waiting in the Durbar Hall for hours together. King Virasindhu did not
open his eyes for days together. Then the ministers reflected: The king is in Samadhi now. We do
not know when he will return from the Samadhi. We will have to manage the affairs of the State.”
They removed the ring from his finger and used it for putting the seal in the papers of the State.
The king opened his eyes after six years, and asked the ministers: “Where is my Guru?” The
ministers replied: “O venerable king! The Guru said a word to your majesty and vanished at once.
You are standing here like a statue for the last six years. We are conducting the affairs of the state
with the aid of your ring. Here is the seal of your ring in all the registers and papers.”
The king was struck with awe and wonder. He thought within himself: “Six years have
passed like a second. I enjoyed supreme bliss. I have no desire to rule the State after tasting the
supreme bliss.” He left the palace and entered the forest and sat in Samadhi.
The force of Yogic Samskaras of the king that was generated by the practice of Yoga in his
previous birth, helped him in the attainment of the beatitude in this birth. Those who have not much
piety and religious inclination in this birth should do Japa, Kirtan, meditation, and study of religious
books. They should live in the company of sages. They will develop good religious Samskaras. This
will be a valuable asset for them in the next birth. They will start the practice of Yoga in the next
birth in the early age.
It is difficult to say in what form the Guru or the Lord will appear before you to initiate you.
He may come in the form of a leper as Sri Hanuman did, or in the form of an untouchable as Lord
Krishna did, or in the form of a groom as Lord Siva did. The aspirants must be very careful and
vigilant to detect the Lord in the various forms which He assumes.
Lord Siva Drinks Poison
Once, the Devas and the Asuras had a formidable fight for a very long period. Many Devas
and Asuras died in the fight. The Devas thought that they should prolong their lives by drinking
nectar and then continue the war. They approached Brahma with this desire in view. Brahma said:
“This work cannot be done by me. It can be done only by Lord Vishnu.” Thereupon, Brahma and
the Devas approached Lord Hari in Kshirasagara.
Lord Hari asked the Devas and Asuras to churn the ocean with the help of Mandaragiri as
churning-rod and Vasuki, the serpent, as the rope. As they went on churning, poison (Halahala)
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came out first from the ocean. The terrible poison began to burn the people into ashes. The Devas,
the Asuras and the Rishis began to fly away. Lord Vishnu was not able to destroy the poison. His
body also became very black. He ran to Kailas along with the Devas and Brahma to see Lord Siva.
He reported to Lord Siva all that had happened. Thereupon, Lord Siva collected the poison and kept
it as a drop in the palm of His hand and swallowed it. Then Lord Vishnu and Brahma requested Lord
Siva to keep it in His neck as a mark of their protection. Lord Siva did it accordingly. Due to the
effect of the poison His throat became blue. From that day onwards Lord Siva is called by the name
‘Nilakantha’ (blue-necked one) or ‘Kalakantha Murti’. Then Lord Siva said to them: “If you churn
again, you will get nectar and several other things.” They all started again the churning of the ocean
and obtained nectar and many other things. All the Devas drank the nectar and rejoiced heartily.
Lord Siva Rides on the Bull
Turning of Chatur-Yuga two thousand times, is a day of Brahma. Such thirty days make a
month for him. Such twelve months make a year for him. Such hundred years make the full life of
Brahma. The whole life-period of Brahma is a day for Lord Vishnu. After one hundred years, Lord
Vishnu also will pass away or merge himself in Parabrahman. All the Andas will perish. On account
of the heavy blowing of Prachanda Vayu, the seven oceans will ebb high and cover the whole
world. Lord Siva alone will exist. He will burn everything into ashes through His fiery third eye and
then dance.
The Dharmadevata or the Lord of Virtue reflected within himself: “How can I attain
immortality? If I approach Lord Siva only, I can attain this.” He assumed the form of a bull, went to
Lord Siva and said: “My venerable Lord! Kindly accept me as Thy vehicle and thus protect me.”
Lord Siva agreed to the humble request of the God of Dharma and said: “Conduct the
Dharma with four feet in the Krita Yuga, with the three feet in the Treta Yuga, with two feet in the
Dvapara Yuga, and with one foot in the Kali Yuga. On account of My grace, you will be endowed
with all splendour and powers. You will be always My vehicle. You will be one with Me.”
When Lord Siva destroyed Tripuras or the three cities, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of a
bull and supported Lord Siva.
Lord Siva Wears the Ganga on His Head
Once upon a time in Mount Kailas, Parvati closed the eyes of Lord Siva with her hands.
Thereupon the sun, moon and fire did not shine forth. This caused terrible havoc in the world. All
were enveloped by darkness for a long period. Lord Siva opened His third eye a bit. The sun, moon
and fire began to shine again and all darkness vanished.
Parvati was frightened. She removed her hands and dropped down the perspiration from her
fingers. This perspiration was turned into ten Gangas with countless branches. These rivers did
much havoc to the world. Thereupon Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Indra ran to Lord Siva and
requested Him to avert this catastrophe.
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Lord Siva felt compassionate and brought the whole waters in one hair of His matted locks.
Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Indra requested Lord Siva to give a little of the water of the Ganga for
their worlds. Lord Siva gave them a little. They became Virajanadi in Vaikuntha, Manasa Tirtha in
Satyaloka and Devaganga in Indraloka. King Bhagiratha brought down the Ganga from
Brahmaloka to save the sixty thousand sons of Sagara.
Lord Siva’s Lila of Begging
The Rishis of Darukavana thought that there was no use in loving and adoring Lord Siva and
they could attain Moksha through the performance of sacrifices. They left off worship of the Lord
and did sacrifices vigorously.
Then Lord Siva said to Lord Hari: “Assume the form of Mohini and enter the abode of all
Rishis in Daruka forest. They have no regard for Me now. They are treading the wrong path now.
We should teach them a severe lesson. Excite their passion and delude them. Destroy their Vratas.”
He also put on the form of a mendicant-beggar.
Thereupon, Lord Hari assumed the form of Mohini and entered the dwelling places of the
Rishis in Darukavana. All the Rishis lost their power of understanding and discrimination and
followed Mohini under strong excitement of passion.
Lord Siva entered the Parnakutirs of the wives of the Rishis, sang the Srutis and hymns
beautifully and roamed about as a mendicant-beggar. The wives of Rishis became excited and
followed Lord Siva. They entreated Him in a variety of ways to satisfy them. Lord Siva multiplied
Himself and appeared in the mind of each woman. All the wives of the Rishis enjoyed heartily.
They all brought forth in the morning eighteen thousand Rishis with matted locks, Danda and
Kamandalu. They all prayed to Lord Siva. Lord Siva blessed them to do Tapas in the forest. The
Rishis acted accordingly.
The Rishis witnessed the condition of their wives and said: “We were deluded by the
enchanting Mohini. The mendicant-beggar spoiled the chastity of our wives. Lo! how powerful is
lust! Mysterious is Maya!”
Lord Siva Wears Trident, Deer, Etc.
The Rishis of Darukavana performed a Yajna to destroy Lord Siva. A cruel tiger came out of
the fire. They commanded the tiger to kill Lord Siva. Lord Siva killed the tiger and wore the skin
around His waist. Then they created a trident, to kill the Lord. Lord Siva wore it in His hand as His
instrument. Then they created a deer with sharp horns, to kill the Lord. Lord Siva wore it in His left
hand.
Later on they created countless black cobras to kill the Lord. Lord Siva wore them as His
ornaments. Then they created countless Bhuta Ganas to kill the Lord. Lord Siva made them as His
army. Then they created a Damaru to kill the Lord. Lord Siva wore it in His hand. Then they created
an Asura, Muyalaka, to kill the Lord. Muyalaka marched with the Yajna fire to destroy Lord Siva.
Lord Siva held the fire as Malu in His hand and kept the Asura under His feet.
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Lord Siva Has Uma on His Left
After the Samhara was over, Lord Brahma born of the grace of Lord Siva thought of
creating all beings. He created Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatkumara and Sanatsujata. They did not
enter the life of householders. They developed wisdom and became great Yogis.
Lord Brahma went to Vaikuntha and saw Lord Hari and said to Him: “O venerable Lord! I
am not able to continue the creation. Sanaka, Sanandana, etc., have become Yogis. They do not
wish to become householders. Kindly suggest to me a way to continue my work of creation.” Lord
Vishnu said: “This is not in my power. Let us go to Lord Siva who abides in Kailasa.”
Brahma and Vishnu saw the Lord of Kailasa and said to Him: “O God of gods! The creative
work of Brahma has been stopped as the four Kumaras have become Yogis. Kindly bless him to
continue his creative work.”
Lord Siva looked at the left side of His chest. Uma took Her birth from Lord Siva’s left side.
Lord Siva said to them: “Now there is no difficulty in creation. It will continue without any hitch.”
Thereupon Brahma and Vishnu repaired to their respective abodes. Then Lord Brahma created the
worlds through the grace of Lord Siva. Men and women lived together happily and brought forth
offsprings. The whole appearance is Saktimaya. Lord Siva witnesses Prakriti’s activities.
Lord Siva Wears Elephant’s Skin
In days of yore, Gajasura did severe penance. Brahma appeared before him and asked him:
“O Gajasura! I am pleased with your penance. What boon do you want?” Gajasura said: “O
venerable Lord! Give me prowess and inexhaustible wealth.” “I have given you what you desired.
But if you fight against Lord Siva, you will lose your boon.” Then Lord Brahma vanished.
Thereupon, Gajasura did Digvijaya, and defeated Devas and Indra. He troubled the Munis
and the Rishis also. They repaired to Banares and fell at the feet of Lord Visvanatha and said:
“Gajasura is trying to kill us. Protect us. O Lord! There is no other refuge for us.”
Gajasura attacked Lord Visvanatha also. The Lord killed the Asura, tore the skin and wore it
as His garment. Then the Devas and the Rishis praised the Lord and became happy.
Lord Siva the Fuel Seller
Varaguna Pandian was the king of Pandya kingdom. His capital was at Madurai. He was
like Indra. Yemanathan, skilled in Vina, came to his Durbar from Northern India. He played
thrilling songs on Vina. The king appreciated Yemanathan’s music, gave him rich presents and kept
him in a separate bungalow. Yemanathan was very much puffed up owing to his skill in music.
Varaguna Pandian understood that Yemanathan was proud of his knowledge of music. He
called his Durbar-musician Bhanabhadra and said to him: “O Bhadra! Will you be able to attain
victory over the new musician Yemanathan?” Bhanabhadra replied: “I can certainly defeat him
68
through your grace and the blessings of Lord Somasundara of Madurai.” The king said: “Well then,
come tomorrow and exhibit your skill in music.”
The disciples of Yemanathan roamed about in all the streets and lanes of Madurai, played on
Vina and vigorously advertised about their skill in music. Bhanabhadra heard this and reflected
within himself: “These disciples are very efficient in music and Vina. If the disciples possess such
knowledge, what must be the splendour and glory of their Guru! How can I attain victory over this
master-musician?” Then he prayed to Lord Siva: “Kindly help me now to defeat Yemanathan. I am
in need of Thy grace.”
Then the Lord assumed the form of a wood-cutter, wore a rag around his body and torn
shoes on his feet. He had a Vina in his hand and a bundle of fuel on his head. He went to the house
where Yemanathan was living and sat on the verandah. He took his Vina and played in a marvellous
manner. He sang beautifully along with Vina.
Yemanathan was struck with wonder when he heard the wonderful music. He came out and
asked the fuel-seller: “O fuel-seller! Who are you?” The fuel-seller replied: “I am one of the
disciples and a servant of Bhanabhadra, the Durbar-singer of Varaguna Pandian. He has many
disciples. As I became old, my master abandoned me and told me that I am unfit for singing.”
Yemanathan requested the fuel-seller to sing again. He sang again Satari Raga which
melted the heart of Yemanathan. Lord Siva, who acted the part of fuel-seller, vanished with his
bundle of fire-wood.
Yemanathan thought within himself: “I have not heard this Satari Raga till now. It is
Devaraga. If this old man can sing this Raga in such a beautiful manner, what must be the
knowledge and glory of his master! Surely God only ought to have taught him this Raga. I cannot
stand before Bhanabhadra. Let me leave this place at once.” Yemanathan’s heart was filled with
fear and shame. He left all the things and left the house at midnight along with his disciples.
Lord Somasundara appeared in the dream of Bhanabhadra and said: “Do not be afraid. I put
on the form of fuel-seller, sat on the verandah of the house in which Yemanathan lived and played
on the Vina. He was struck with wonder and ran away at midnight. Be at ease now.”
Bhanabhadra got up in the morning, went to the temple at Madurai and worshipped Lord
Somasundara. Then he went to the Durbar of Varaguna Pandian. The king sent a servant to call
Yemanathan. The servant searched him in several places. He was not able to find out the new
musician. The neighbours of the house in which Yemanathan lived said: “One fuel-seller came and
sang. The new singer left the place at midnight. This only we know.”
The servant reported the matter to the king. The king said to Bhanabhadra: “Could you tell
me what you did after leaving me?” Bhanabhadra told the king: “My venerable Lord! I went to my
house and prayed to Lord Somasundara to bless me. He appeared in my dream and said: ‘I put on
the form of a fuel-seller, sang Satari Raga in the house of Yemanathan. I drove him away.’ I at once
woke up. This is what happened.”
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Varaguna Pandian came to know that this was the Lila of Lord Siva. He admired the
devotion of Bhadra and gave him rich presents. He said to Bhadra: “The Lord who made Brahma
and the other Devas His servants, became your servant and blessed you. We are all your servants
only. I am your servant. In future sing the praise of Lord Somasundara always.”
Bhanabhadra rejoiced heartily. He was ever devoted to Lord Somasundara.
The Twentyfive Lilas of Lord Siva
The following are the 25 Lilas (sportive plays) or manifestations of Lord Siva:
1. Wearing of moon on the head, 2. Living with Uma Devi, 3. Riding on ox, 4. Tandava
dance with Kali, 5. Marriage with Parvati, 6. Begging, 7. Burning of Manmatha or the God of Love,
8. Victory over Yama or the God of Death, 9. Burning of Tripuras, 10. Killing of Jalandarasura, 11.
Killing of Gajasura, 12. Incarnation of Virabhadra, 13. Harihara, 14. Ardhanarisvara, 15.
Transforming into Kirata, (hunter), 16. Assuming the form of Kankala, 17. Blessing Chandisvara,
18. Drinking poison, 19. Giving of Chakra to Lord Vishnu, 20. Destroying of obstacles, 21. Having
sons of Uma Devi with Him, 22. Becoming Ekapada Rudra, 23. Being in easy pose (Sukhasana),
24. Assuming the form of Dakshinamurti, and 25. Assuming Linga form.
Chapter IX
SIVA YOGA SADHANA
Secret of Panchakshara
Panchakshara is a Mahamantra which is composed of five letters, Namassivaya. A Mantra

is that which removes all obstacles and miseries of one who reflects on it and bestows eternal bliss
and immortality. Panchakshara is the best among seven crores of Mantras. There are seven
Skandhas in Yajurveda. There is Rudradhyayi in the centre of the middle Skandha. In this
Rudradhyayi there are one thousand Rudra Mantras. Namassivaya or the Siva Panchakshara
Mantra shines in the centre of these one thousand Rudra Mantras.
Yajurveda is the head of Paramesvara, who is the Veda Purusha. Rudram which is in the
middle is the face, Panchakshara is His eye, Siva which is in the centre of the ‘Namassivaya’ is the
apple of the eye. He who does Japa of this Panchakshara is freed from births and deaths and attains
eternal bliss. This is the emphatic declaration of the Vedas. This Panchakshara is the body of Lord
Nataraja. This is the abode of Lord Siva. If you add ‘Om’ to the ‘Namassivaya’ in the beginning,
then it becomes Shadakshara or six-lettered Mantra. ‘Om Namo Mahadevaya’ is the eight-lettered
Mantra or Ashtakshara.
Panchakshara is of six kinds, viz., Sthula Panchakshara (Namassivaya), Sukshma

Panchakshara (Sivaya Namah), Karana Panchakshara (Sivaya Siva), Mahakarana Panchakshara
(Sivaya), Mahamanu or Mukti Panchakshara (Si).
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‘Namah’ means ‘Prostration’. ‘Sivaya Namah’ means ‘Prostration unto Lord Siva’. The
Jiva is the servant of Lord Siva from the Deha-Drishti. ‘Namah’ represents Jivatman. ‘Siva’
represents Paramatman. ‘Aya’ denotes ‘Aikyam’ or identity of Jivatman and Paramatman. Hence
‘Sivaya Namah’ is a Mahavakya, like ‘Tat Tvam Asi’ which signifies the identity between the
individual and the supreme soul.
Pranava denotes the external form (husk) of the Lord (paddy) and Panchakshara, the
internal Svarupa (rice). Pranava and Panchakshara are one. The five letters denote the five actions
or Pancha Krityas of the Lord, viz., Srishti (creation), Sthiti (preservation), Samhara (destruction),
Tirodhana (veiling) and Anugraha (blessing). They also denote the five elements and all creations
through the combination of the five elements.
‘Na’ represents Tirodhana; ‘Ma’, the Mala or impurity; ‘Si’, Lord Siva; ‘Va’, the Arul
Sakti; and ‘Ya’, the individual soul.
Take bath or wash your face, hands and feet. Wear Bhasma and Rudraksha Mala. Sit on
Padmasana or Sukhasana, facing East or North, in a quiet place or room. Repeat silently the
Panchakshara and meditate on the form of Lord Siva. Keep the image in the heart or space between
the eyebrows.
If you practise meditation regularly, your heart will be purified. All Samskaras and sins will
be burnt in toto. You will attain Siva-Yoga-Nishtha or Nirvikalpa Samadhi. You will attain the
glorious Siva-Pada or Siva-Gati and become one with Lord Siva. You will enjoy the eternal bliss of
Sivanandam and become immortal.
May Lord Siva bless you all!
Meditation on Lord Siva
SAGUNA MEDITATION: Saguna meditation is meditation on a form. An archer first

aims at a gross, big object. Then he takes up a medium object. Finally, he shoots at very small and
minute objects. Even so, one should take to Saguna meditation to start with, and when the mind is
trained and disciplined well, he can have Nirakara, Nirguna meditation. Saguna meditation is
meditation on a concrete object. Saguna meditation is peculiarly pleasing the Bhakta, who loves to
gaze on the peculiar form of his Ishta. Saguna Upasana removes Vikshepa. For three or six months,
practise Trataka on Siva’s picture.
Meditate on the mental picture of the Murti from half to two hours only in the Trikuti (space
between the eyebrows). See and feel that the Lord is present in every object of the universe. When
you meditate, mentally repeat the Mantra of the Devata, ‘Om Namah Sivaya’; think of the attributes
of the Deity such as omnipresence, omnipotence and omniscience. Feel that Sattvic qualities from
the Ishtam flow towards you. Feel that you possess these Sattvic qualities. This is Sattvic or Suddha
Bhavana. You will have Darsana of your Ishtam in one or two years, if you are sincere in your
Sadhana. Follow this plan. This will help concentration. Move the mind on the various parts of the
Murti, the picture or idol of Lord Siva, and meditate. Sit upon your usual Asana. Repeat His name
and think of His attributes like bliss, radiance, love, etc., gazing at His picture all the while. Then
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SIVA YOGA SADHANA
enthrone Him in the lotus of your heart or between your eyebrows amidst a blazing light. Now
mentally think of His lotus-feet, offering your devout salutations. Take the mind to the
elephant-skin worn round the waist, then to the necklace of Rudraksha beads, adorning His chest,
and the beautiful blue hue of His throat (Nilakantha), serene countenance, radiating the majestic
aura of profound meditations, the indrawn half-closed meditative eyes, the mysterious third eye in
the centre of the forehead. Next take the mind up to the matted locks, the cool crescent moon, and
the sacred Ganga sprouting from the Jata. Rotate your mind on the trident (Trisula) in one hand, and
then, the Damaru, in the other. Run your mind over the whole form till you complete all the details.
Then fix your mind either on the face or upon the starting point (feet). Repeat the entire process
again and again, as many times as you can. By constant practice, you will ultimately be established
in meditation and have communion with Siva.
NIRGUNA MEDITATION: This is meditation on Lord Siva, in His all-pervasive,

unmanifested aspect, as the Supreme Para Brahman. In this form of meditation, you meditate on
Lord Siva as the Supreme Brahman without form, attributeless, eternal, infinite. Meditate on Him
as the Suddha, Satchidananda, Vyapaka Atman; Nitya, Suddha, Siddha, Buddha, Mukta, eternally
free Brahman; an unlimited Ocean of Pure Consciousness. Now, identify yourself with this
transcendental Svarupa of Siva. Feel that you are Chaitanya, Akhanda, Paripurna, Ekarasa, Santa,
Unchanging Existence.
Every atom, every molecule, every nerve, vein, artery, should powerfully vibrate with these
ideas. Lip-repetition of ‘Sivoham’ will not produce much benefit. It should be through heart, head
and soul. This feeling should be kept up continuously. Negate the body-idea while repeating
Sivoham mentally. When you chant Sivoham feel:
Infinity I am Sivoham Sivoham

All light I am Sivoham Sivoham
All joy I am Sivoham Sivoham
All glory I am Sivoham Sivoham
All power I am Sivoham Sivoham
All knowledge I am Sivoham Sivoham
All Ananda I am Sivoham Sivoham
Meditate on the above ideas constantly. Constant effort with zeal and enthusiasm, is an
indispensable requisite. Repeat mentally the above ideas incessantly. You will realise.
Worship of Siva
Lord Siva is worshipped in His Saguna aspect in the form of Sivalingam. Generally
Sivabhaktas do Panchayatana Puja. In this Puja, Lord Siva, Ganesa, Parvati, Suryanarayana and
Saligram are duly worshipped.
Get the Panchayatana Murtis on an auspicious day. Install them with great faith in your own
house. Conduct special prayers, Archana, Puja, Abhisheka, and feeding of Brahmins, Mahatmas
and the poor on a grand scale. Install the deity in a separate room. Worship the Lord daily with all
sincerity and faith. You will have all wealth, peace of mind, attainment of Dharma, Artha, Kama
72
and Moksha also. You will lead a prosperous life and enter the Immortal abode of Siva-Sayujya, on
death.
Collect plenty of Bael or Bilva leaves for Lord Siva’s worship. Get ready Dhupa, Dipa,
camphor, sandal-sticks, fresh water, plenty of flowers, food offerings to the Lord, a seat to sit upon,
a bell, conch and other things required for the Puja before you begin the worship. Get up in the early
morning before sunrise. Wash your face. Take bath. Wear silk dress separately kept for Puja
purposes. Decorate the Puja room nicely. Enter the room chanting Lord’s names, glorifying Him,
repeating Hymns in His praise and prostrating before the Lord. Wash your feet before entering the
room. Sit in a comfortable posture and commence your worship. You have to first of all do
Sankalpa for beginning the Puja in the prescribed method. You should then do Kalasa (water
vessel), Sankha (conch), Atma (self) and Pitha (Lord’s seat) Puja in their order. You should then
offer Shodasopachara Puja to the Lord and then repeat Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, Rudrapatha,
Purushasukta, Gayatri, and do Abhisheka with pure water, milk, sugarcane juice, ghee and other
articles according to your capacity or with pure water alone. Rudrabhisheka is highly beneficial. If
you do Rudra Japa and Abhisheka, all your worries and agonies will disappear and you will attain
the highest beatitude of human existence by the grace of Lord Visvanath. Rudra is a great purifier.
There is invisible hidden power in Rudra and Purushasukta. There is a wonderful inspiration in the
recitation of Rudra. Start the worship and realise its glory and splendour for yourself.
After Abhisheka, decorate the Lord nicely with sandal paste and flowers. Then do Archana
repeating His names, ‘Om Sivaya Namah’, ‘Om Mahesvaraya Namah’, etc. Do daily 108 or 1008
Archanas if possible. After Archana, do Arati with different kinds of lights—single Arati, Triple
Arati, Pancha Arati and Karpura Arati. Ring bells, cymbals, conch, etc., during Arati. Offer sacred
Prasad or Naivedya to the Lord.
After Arati is over, sing the praises of the Lord like Mahimna Stotra, Panchakshara Stotra,
etc., waving the Chamara. In the end repeat the prayers ‘Kayena vachah’, ‘Atma tvam Girija matih’,
and ‘Kara-charana-kritam’. Offer everything to the Lord. Feel that you are a mere instrument in
His hands. Do everything for obtaining the divine grace only. Develop Nimitta Bhava. Serve the
Bhaktas. The Lord is much pleased with the service of His devotees. Distribute the Prasad among
the Bhaktas in the end. Take the Prasad with great faith. The glory of Bhagavan’s Prasad is
indescribable. Vibhuti is taken as Prasad and applied to the forehead.
When you advance in Saguna worship with external objects of worship, you can begin
Manasa Puja. You will have Darsana of the Lord and final emancipation.
Have special Pujas on Mondays and Pradosha (thirteenth day of every

fortnight—Trayodasi) days. These days and Sivaratri (in the month of February-March) are very
sacred for Lord Siva. Celebrate the Sivaratri on a grand scale. Fast the whole day. Have Trikala
Puja, special Abhisheka, Ekadasa-rudra-japa, Sahasrarchana, vigil in the night, study of hymns of
Lord Siva, Sivapurana, hearing discourses on the Lilas of Lord Siva. After Puja on the next day,
break your fast with Abhisheka water. Offer sacred food offerings and partake of the Divine Prasad.
You will have great mental peace, and spiritual advancement. Never miss this opportunity. Daily
worship is a sure remedy for all ills. You will never suffer from poverty. Take my word and begin
the Puja right from this day onwards.
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SIVA YOGA SADHANA
Siva Manasa Puja
Manasa Puja is mental worship. Manasa Puja is more powerful and effective than the
external worship with flowers, sandals, etc. You will have more concentration when you do Manasa
Puja.
Mentally enthrone the Lord on a Simhasana, set with diamonds, pearls, emeralds, etc. Offer
Him a seat. Offer Arghya, Madhuparka and various sorts of flowers, clothes, etc. Apply sandal
paste to His forehead and body. Burn incense and Agarbatti (scented sticks). Wave lights. Burn
camphor and do Arati. Offer various kinds of fruits, sweetmeats, Payasa, cocoanut and
Mahanaivedyam. Do Shodasa-upachara or the sixteen kinds of offerings in worship.
Panchakshara Mantra Writing
Write down in a fine note book ‘Om Namah Sivaya’ for half an hour or more. You will have
more concentration by taking recourse to this Sadhana. Write the Mantra in ink clearly. When you
write the Mantra observe Mouna. You may write the Mantra in any language. Give up looking
hither and thither. Repeat the Mantra mentally also when you write the Mantra. Write the whole
Mantra at once. When the Mantra notebook is completed, keep it in a box in your meditation room.
Be regular in your practice.
Keep a small notebook in your pocket and write Mantra when you get leisure in the office.
Have three things in your pocket, viz., the Gita, Mantra notebook and a Japa Mala or rosary. You
will be immensely benefited.
Siva Jnanam
Japa and meditation of the sacred names of Lord Siva will free you from all sins and lead
you to the attainment of Siva Jnanam or eternal bliss and immortality. Siva-nama is the very soul of
all Mantras.
Lord Siva has manifested in the world in sixty different aspects. Vrishabharudha, Hari-hara,
Nataraja, Bhairava, Dakshinamurti, Ardhanarisvara, Bhikshatana, Somasekharamurti,
Urdhvanatana, Kalasamhara, Jalandhara, Surasamhara, Lingodbhava are His forms.
Siva means that which is eternally happy or auspicious, Parama-mangala. Om and Siva are
one. Mandukya Upanishad says: ‘Santam Sivam Advaitam’. Even an outcaste can meditate on the
name of Lord Siva.
Siva manifests in the Gayatri Mantra, Agni and in the Sun. When you repeat Gayatri and
when you worship the Agni and the Sun, you should meditate on Lord Siva.
Japa of Panchakshara and meditation of Lord Siva should be particularly done in the
Pradosha Kala or just before the sunset. The Pradosha on the thirteenth Tithi after a full moon or a
new moon day, is known as the Mahapradosha. The Devas visit Siva temples for the worship of the
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Lord at this period. You can worship the Devas also if you visit temples during Mahapradosha.
Devotees of Lord Siva observe full fast on Mahapradosha days.
A devotee of Lord Siva should apply Vibhuti to his forehead and body. He should wear a
Rudrakshamala. He should worship the Sivalinga with leaves of the Bilva tree. He should do Japa
and meditation of the Panchakshara ‘Om Namah Sivaya’. Lord Siva is propitiated by everyone of
these actions. Vibhuti or Bhasma is very sacred. It is worn by Lord Siva Himself. The bead of a
Rudrakshamala represents the third eye on the forehead of Lord Siva. Bilva leaves are regarded to
be one of the five abodes of Lakshmi or the Goddess of wealth.
It is Siva only who causes bondage and Mukti for the Jivas. It is Siva who makes the Jivas
realise their essential Divine Nature. Siva made Maya as the body, senses and the Universe and
thrust the Jivas into the Maya. He created the idea of egoism, ‘I’-ness in them. He bound them in
Karma and made them experience pleasure and pain according to the nature of their Karmas,
virtuous actions or vicious deeds. This is the stage of bondage of the Jivas.
Gradually it is Siva only who releases them from the fetters of egoism, Karma and Maya and
makes them shine as Siva. This is the state of Moksha or freedom. It is only through the grace of
Lord Siva, they attain the state of final emancipation.
The Jivas have no independence, when they are under the influence of the three impurities,
i.e., Anava, Karma and Maya. They are endowed with a little knowledge (Alpajnana).
The Jiva must first know his nature and his relationship with Lord Siva in order to attain His
grace. Life or Prana is in the body. Lord Siva is within the Prana. He is the Prana of Pranas, and yet
He is distinct from the Pranas and body. If there is no Prana in the body, the body becomes a corpse.
It cannot perform any action. Siva is the support for this body, Prana and Jiva. The Jiva cannot do
any action without Siva. It is Siva who illumines the intellect. Just as the eye cannot see without the
light of the sun, although it is endowed with the power to see, so also the intellect cannot function
without the light of Lord Siva.
The four Sadhanas, viz., Charya, Kriya, Yoga and Jnana are the four steps to attain
Salvation. They are like the bud, flower, unripe fruit and ripe fruit.
Lord Siva gradually frees the individual souls from egoism, Karma and Maya. The Jivas
gradually become disgusted with the sensual pleasures. They become balanced in pleasure and
pain. Through the grace of the Lord they understand that Karma is the cause for births and deaths.
They begin to do actions for the Lord, serve the devotees of the Lord and attain purity of mind. They
understand that the soul or Siva is distinct from the body, senses and mind and is beyond the reach
of mind and speech. They get initiation into the significance of ‘Om Namah Sivaya’, the
Panchakshara Mantra and meditate on Siva.
They practise Siva Yoga. Their hearts melt. Seer, sight and seen vanish. All the activities of
senses, mind and intellect cease. They bathe Lord Siva with the stream of Divine Love that is
generated in their heart and offer their heart as flower unto the Lord.
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SIVA YOGA SADHANA
They hear the sound ‘Chilambosai’ and march forward through the path of the sound and
behold the vision of Nataraja in the Chidakasa and are immersed in the ocean of Sivananda. They
become one with the Lord, just as camphor melts in the fire.
Worship of Siva Linga
The popular belief is that the Siva Lingam represents the phallus or the virile organ, the
emblem of the generative power or principle in nature. This is not only a serious mistake, but also a
grave blunder. In the post-Vedic period, the Linga became symbolical of the generative power of
the Lord Siva. Linga is the differentiating mark. It is certainly not the sex-mark. You will find in the
Linga Purana: Pradhanam prakritir yadahur-lingamuttamam; Gandhavarnarasairhinam
sabda-sparsadi-varjitam—The foremost Linga which is primary and is devoid of smell, colour,
taste, hearing, touch, etc., is spoken of as Prakriti (Nature).
Linga means ‘mark’, in Sanskrit. It is a symbol which points to an inference. When you see a
big flood in a river, you infer that there had been heavy rains the previous day. When you see
smoke, you infer that there is fire. This vast world of countless forms is a Linga of the Omnipotent
Lord. The Siva Linga is a symbol of Lord Siva. When you look at the Linga, your mind is at once
elevated and you begin to think of the Lord.
Lord Siva is really formless. He has no form of his own and yet all forms are His forms. All
forms are pervaded by Lord Siva. Every form is the form or Linga of Lord Siva.
There is a mysterious power or indescribable Sakti in the Linga, to induce concentration of

the mind. Just as the mind is focussed easily in crystal-gazing, so also the mind attains
one-pointedness, when it looks at the Linga. That is the reason why the ancient Rishis and the seers
of India have prescribed Linga for being installed in the temples of Lord Siva.
Siva Linga speaks to you in the unmistakable language of silence: “I am one without a
second, I am formless”. Pure, pious souls only can understand this language. A curious passionate,
impure foreigner of little understanding or intelligence says sarcastically: “Oh, the Hindus worship
the phallus or sex organ. They are ignorant people. They have no philosophy”. When a foreigner
tries to learn Tamil or Hindustani language, he first tries to pick up some vulgar words. This is his
curiosity nature. Even so, the curious foreigner tries to find out some defects in the worship of
symbol. Linga is only the outward symbol of the formless being, Lord Siva, who is the indivisible,
all-pervading, eternal, auspicious, ever-pure, immortal essence of this vast universe, who is the
undying Soul seated in the chambers of your heart, who is your Indweller, innermost Self or Atman,
and who is identical with the Supreme Brahman.
A Siva Linga consists of three parts, the lowest of which is the Brahma-Pitha, the middle
one, the Vishnu-Pitha and the uppermost one, the Siva-Pitha.
Some are Svayambhu-lingas, some are Narmadesvaras. There are twelve Jyotirlingas and
five Pancha Bhuta Lingas in India. The twelve Jyotir-lingas are: Kedarnath, Kasi Visvanath,
Somanath, Baijnath, Ramesvar, Ghrusnesvar, Bhimasankar, Mahakala, Mallikarjuna, Amalesvar,
Nagesvar and Tryambakesvar. The five Pancha Bhuta Lingas are: Kalahastisvar, Jambukesvar,
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Arunachalesvar, Ekambaresvar of Kanjivaram and Nataraja of Chidambaram. The temple of Lord

Mahalinga at Tiruvidaimarudur known also as Madhyarjuna is regarded as the great Siva temple of
South India.
Spatikalinga is also a symbol of Lord Siva. This is prescribed for Aradhana or worship of
Lord Siva. It is made up of quartz. It has no colour of its own, but takes on the colour of the
substances which come in contact with it. It represents the Nirguna Brahman or the attributeless
Supreme Self or formless and attributeless Siva.
For a sincere devotee, the Linga is not a block of stone. It is all radiant Tejas or Chaitanya.
The Linga talks to him, makes him shed profuse tears, produces horripilation and melting of heart,
raises him above body-consciousness and helps to commune with the Lord and attain Nirvikalpa
Samadhi. Lord Rama worshipped the Siva Linga at Ramesvar. Ravana, the learned scholar,
worshipped the golden Linga. What a lot of mystic Sakti there should be in the Linga!
May you all attain the formless Siva through the worship of the Linga, the symbol of Lord
Siva which helps concentration of mind and which serves as a prop for the mind to lean upon in the
beginning for the neophytes!
Siva Linga is Chinmaya
The light of consciousness manifesting out of Sadasiva is, in reality, the Sivalinga. From
Him all the moving and unmoving creations take their origin. He is the Linga or cause of
everything. In Him, the whole world merges itself finally. The Siva Purana says: “Pitham
Ambamayam Sarvam Sivalingascha Chinmayam.” The support or Pitham of all is Prakriti or
Parvati, and Linga is Chinmaya Purusha, the effulgent light which is self-luminous. Union of
Prakriti or Parvati, and Purusha or Sivalinga is the cause of the world. In Sanatkumara-samhita of
the Siva Purana, Lord Siva says: “O Parvati, daughter of mountain, there is none dearer to Me than
the man who worships Me in the Linga, knowing that Linga is the root-cause of everything and
knowing the world to be Linga-maya or Chaitanya-maya.”
The Linga is like an egg. It represents the Brahmanda (cosmic egg). Whatever that is
contained in the Brahmanda is in the Linga. The whole world is the form of Lord Siva. The world is
a Linga. Linga also is the form of Lord Siva.
Linga signifies that the creation is effected by the union of Prakriti and Purusha. It means
Laya, Jnana, Vyapya, Prakasa, Arathaprakasa, Samarthya and the symbol which denotes the above
meaning. Linga means the place of dissolution for the world and all beings. It signifies also Satya,
Jnana and Ananta—Truth, knowledge and Infinity. It indicates that Lord Siva is endowed with
all-pervading and self-luminous nature. Linga is a symbol which makes us understand the various
kinds of Artha which are indicated above. There are six Lingas, viz., Anda Linga, Pinda Linga,
Sadasiva Linga, Atma Linga, Jnana Linga and Siva Linga. These Lingas are taken to mean the
characteristics by which the Anda (the Universe), Pinda (the body), Sadasiva, etc., are to be
recognised and understood.
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SIVA YOGA SADHANA
The union of Linga with Yoni is a representation of the Eternal Union between the static and
the dynamic aspects of the Absolute Reality. This represents the Eternal Spiritual Communion of
the paternal and the maternal principles from which all the phenomenal diversities have originated.
This is an eternal communion of the Changeless Being and the Dynamic Power or Sakti from which
all changes flow.
Further, the lower sexual propensities in the aspirants are eradicated by this sublime
conception. The spiritualisation and divinisation of Linga and Yoni, helps the aspirants to free
themselves from sexual thoughts. All base thoughts gradually vanish by entertaining this lofty idea.
All sexual relations in this world are spiritualised as the manifestations of the ultimate Creative
Principle, of the eternal Self-enjoyment and Self-multiplication of Lord Siva in and through His
Power or Sakti.
The union of Linga with Yoni symbolises the creation of this universe by Lord Siva in
conjunction with His Sakti or Power.
The so-called educated men of the modern age have no spiritual insight and philosophical
penetration. Hence, they criticise the union of Linga with Yoni as immoral and obscene, owing to
their extreme ignorance and lack of enquiry, deep thinking and Satsanga or association with sages.
This is highly deplorable and lamentable indeed! May Lord grant wisdom to these poor ignorant
souls!
Way to Attain Lord Siva
Tirumular’s Tirumantram is a poetical work, said to be composed in the course of three

thousand years. It deals with the practical and theoretical aspects of Saiva religion and philosophy.
The treatment of Pati (Lord Siva), Pasu (the individual soul) and Pasa (attachment) in the old
method, is found in this book. The following is Tirumular’s exposition in his Tirumantram.
God alone is the Guru or the spiritual teacher. He shows Siva or Sat. Sat-Guru is Ambalam
or Chidakasa Siva. You will have to search the Guru in your own heart. Knowledge, devotion,
purity and Siddhis are obtained through the grace of the Guru. The grace descends in virtuous
aspirants who have purity, dispassion, etc.
The thirsting aspirant should get help from Guru Param. Guru Param imparts spiritual
instructions to the aspirant. Then Suddha Guru confers upon him Divine Grace. When the aspirant
obtains the Divine Grace, he gets several powers, purity, the power to know the Mantras, higher
Siddhis, etc. Then the Sat-Guru reveals himself in the Chidakasa, breaks the three bonds, viz.,
Anava (egoism), Karma (action) and Maya (illusion) and helps him to enter the illimitable domain
of Moksha or supreme abode of eternal bliss. Siva Guru presents himself later on and manifests Sat,
Asat and Sadasat. When the Jiva attains this final knowledge, he becomes Siva himself. The Guru
who presents himself in the earlier and later stages, is Siva himself.
The devotee attains the grace of the Lord when he meditates on Him in the chambers of his
heart, in the space between the two eyebrows and in the head. The holy feet of the Lord are highly
eulogised. Tirumular says: “The holy feet of my Lord are Mantra, beauty and truth.”
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Jneya or that which is to be known, is Siva Ananda which is a product of Siva and His grace,
Sakti. The Jnata (knower) is the individual soul or Jiva. He knows Siva by abiding in Siva Ananda
and obtains Jnana or knowledge.
Moksha is the attainment of Siva Ananda. He who attains Moksha will attain supreme
knowledge of Siva. He who gets established in Siva Ananda will attain knowledge and Moksha (the
final emancipation). The Jiva who knows Siva Ananda dwells for ever in it. He attains Siva and
Sakti in Siva Ananda. He is endowed with true knowledge which is really union of Siva and Sakti.
Lord Siva shows the path which leads on to Moksha, to the aspirant who is endowed with
dispassion, non-attachment, renunciation, who praises Him always and performs regular worship.
The devotee of Lord Siva gets strength to resist the temptations of the world and of Indra,
through his Tapas or austerity. He does not care at all for the celestial pleasures offered by Indra. He
is quite contented with the supreme bliss attained through union with Lord Siva.
When the Sadhaka does rigorous austerities and practises concentration, he attains several
powers. Indra and other Devas get terribly afraid that they will lose their position. Hence, they put
several obstacles on his path and tempt him in a variety of ways by offering celestial car, damsels
and various sorts of celestial pleasures. But the firm Sadhaka stands adamant. He never yields and
marches direct to the goal, viz., Siva-Pada or the Immortal seat of eternal Bliss. He who yields gets a
downfall. Visvamitra had a downfall.
Sage Tirumular says: “Abandon pride of learning. Introspect. Look within. You will be
firmly established in Siva. Nothing will shake you. You will be freed from the trammels of births
and deaths.”
Saiva Siddhanta teaches Advaita only. It is Siva Advaita.
Greatness of the Prasad
Prasad is that which gives peace. During Kirtan, worship, Puja, Havan and Arati, Badam,
Kismis, milk, sweets, fruits are offered to the Lord. Puja is done by Bael leaves, flowers, Tulsi,
Vibhuti, and these are given as Prasad, from the Lord. They are charged with mysterious powers by
the chanting of Mantras during Puja and Havan.
Prasad is a great purifier. Prasad is a panacea. Prasad is a spiritual elixir. Prasad is the Grace
of the Lord. Prasad is an embodiment of Sakti. Prasad is divinity in manifestation. Many sincere
aspirants get wonderful experiences from Prasad alone. Many incurable diseases are cured. Prasad
energises, vivifies, invigorates and infuses devotion. It should be taken with great faith.
Live for a week in Brindavan, Pandharpur or Banares. You will realise the glory and
miraculous effects of Prasad. Prasad bestows good health, long life, peace and prosperity on all.
Glory to Prasad, the bestower of peace and bliss. Glory to the Lord of the Prasad. Giver of
immortality and undying happiness.
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SIVA YOGA SADHANA
Vibhuti is the Prasad of Lord Siva, to be applied on the forehead. A small portion can be
taken in.
Kumkum is the Prasad of Sri Devi or Sakti, to be applied at the space between the eyebrows
(Ajna or Bhrumadhya).
Tulsi is the Prasad of Lord Vishnu, Rama or Krishna, not to be taken in. Badam, Kismis,
sweets, fruits, etc., are to be taken in.
All these Prasads are given on all important religious functions.
Benefit of Pilgrimage
You will find a description of Oertel’s treatment in books on medicine, for certain cardiac
affections (heart-troubles). The patient is asked to climb up hills slowly. So, the Kailasa trip,
besides the spiritual benefit, removes many kinds of minor heart-troubles. The heart is invigorated
and strengthened. The whole cardiac-vascular, nervous, pulmonary, alimentary, integumentary
systems are thoroughly overhauled and purified. There is no necessity for Kuhne’s steam bath. You
perspire profusely during the march. The whole body is filled with fresh, oxygenated blood. The
gentle breeze blowing from the tall pine trees all over, surcharged with natural oil of pine, disinfects
the lungs and a consumptive is cured of phthisis when he returns. The excessive fat is reduced. A
Kailas trip is the best treatment for reduction of obesity in corpulent persons. Many kinds of
stomach troubles, uric acid troubles and various sorts of skin diseases are cured. You will not get
any disease for a period of 12 years, as you are charged with new electrons, new atoms, new cells,
new molecules and new nuclei with renovated protoplasm. This is no Arthavada (glorification).
You get two birds by throwing one stone. The Kailas trip brings spiritual blessings and good health.
Hail! Hail to Sambhu, the Lord Siva who dwells in Kailas with His Sakti, Parvati, who gives Mukti
to His devotees and who is known by the different names, Hara, Sadasiva, Mahadeva, Nataraja,
Sankara, etc.
The goal of life is God-realisation which only can free us from the miseries of Samsara, the
wheel of birth and death. The performance of the daily obligatory rites, Nitya-Naimittika Karmas,
Yatras, etc., unselfishly, leads to the acquisition of virtue. This leads to the destruction of sin, which
in turn results in the purification of the mind. This purification of the mind leads to the
comprehension of the true nature of Samsara or relative existence, its false and worthless nature.
From this results Vairagya (renunciation), which arouses a desire for liberation. From this desire
results a vigilant search for its means. From it comes the renunciation of all actions. Thence, the
practice of Yoga, which leads to a habitual tendency of the mind to settle in the Atman or Brahman.
This results in the knowledge of the meaning of such Sruti passages as ‘Tat Tvam Asi’, which
destroys the Avidya (ignorance), thus leading to the establishment in one’s own self. Thus you see
that Yatra like Kailas trip is a Parampara Sadhana for God-realisation, as it causes Chitta Suddhi
and Nididhyasana. Dhyana is a direct Sadhana. Householders who are shut up in the world amidst
various sorts of cares and anxieties, find a great relief in a Yatra. Their minds get quite refreshed by
a Yatra. Further, during the travel they come across Sadhus and Sannyasins. They can have good
Satsanga. They can clear their doubts. They can get various sorts of help from them in spiritual
Sadhana. That is the main object of Yatra.
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Let me bring to your memory, once more, the last word of the Vedas, Upanishads—‘Tat
Tvam Asi’, my dear readers. Om Tat Sat, Om Santi, Peace be unto all beings.
Benefits of Parikrama
Parikrama is the devout perambulation or Pradakshina around a sacred and holy spot. This
is either a mountain peak, a sacred Tirtha, a place of pilgrimage or an entire area regarded as holy
and sanctified by tradition. This practice of making a circuit is ordinarily done at any time, and
especially undertaken by devotees en masse at particular periods during the year.
When done on a smaller scale within a small ambit as round a Murti installed in a shrine,
round the sacred Tulsi plant or Pipal tree, the perambulation is in common parlance termed
‘Pradakshina.’ A Parikrama also doubtless constitutes Pradakshina, but by convention, it is come to
refer mainly to big circuit.
More difficult forms of Parikrama are in vogue. Additional measures involving greater
physical exertion and strain are combined with Parikrama. Some lay themselves fully stretched
upon the ground and roll along over the entire route. Some others proceed slowly prostrating full
length at every three or ten steps; still others walk step by step, placing one foot in close proximity
to the other and cover the whole distance of Parikrama; and others do the circuit themselves
gyrating in a continuous Atma-Pradakshina. All these difficult features are adopted by devotees at
times as special penance, or in accordance with some vow previously made, or as spontaneous
expression of their zeal or fervour. Your mental attitude and motive will bestow on you the highest,
maximum spiritual good.
Undaunted Yatris in the icy Himalayas do the difficult Parikrama of Mount Kailas and even
longer circuit of Lake Manasasarovar. Other Yatris complete a round of entire Uttarakhand, in
doing the Kedar-Badri-Yatra by going via one route and returning via another, after circling the
Chardham.
Far off in the South, pious devotees make Pradakshina of the holy Arunachala at
Tiruvannamalai. Rama Bhaktas and Krishna Premis go round Chitrakuta Parvata, Ayodhya, Brij,
Brindavan, Govardhana and Badrinath.
The deep significance of Parikrama lies in the fact that the devotee considers not the
physical aspect of the place, hill or Tirtha, but the spiritual power it symbolises and the Divine
Presence that is manifested and felt through it. Through the Lord’s revelation in the tenth chapter of
the Bhagavad-Gita, you will understand how much special places are saturated with the Divine
Presence. By the fervent attitude of faith and veneration, you make yourself fully receptive to the
inflow of the spiritual vibrations of the holy place. These powerful spiritual currents enter and
purify all the sheaths, gross and subtle, destroying bad Vasanas and Samskaras. Tamas and Rajas
are reduced. The concentrated influence of Sattva awakens the dormant spiritual tendencies. By
Parikrama, the devotee drinks deep the Divine atmosphere pervading the place and comes out of
this spiritual path steeped in Sattvic vibrations. This is the inner working and significance of doing
Parikrama.
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SIVA YOGA SADHANA
Being a great purifier, it is enjoined on all devotees as a method of penance or Tapascharya

by wise tradition and convention. It is an act of great spiritual benefit and religious merit too. The
devotee takes bath, wears clean clothes, smears Tilak or sacred ash and wears Tulsi or Rudraksha
Mala and starts with God’s name on his lips. On the Parikrama route, you gain valuable Satsanga by
meeting Sadhus and Sannyasins living there. Your sins are destroyed by taking bath in sacred rivers
(on big Parikramas) or ponds and Kunds. You are elevated and blessed by Darsana of many holy
shrines situated on the way. You develop patience and endurance putting up with various
discomforts in the sun or rain or cold. Difficult Parikramas mean giving up many dear articles to
which the mind is attached. You have your mind freed from all thoughts and you are absorbed in the
one idea of the Divine presence. A devoutly conducted Parikrama constitutes in one single act a
triple Sadhana elevating your body, mind and spirit. The spiritual vibrations of the holy places of
pilgrimage and shrines purify your base Asuric Vrittis and fill you with Sattva and purity. You need
not go in for Satsanga. Mahapurushas come to you of their own accord. They are always in search of
real and sincere Sadhakas. Therefore, they also remain in holy places like Badri, Kedar, Kailas,
Hardwar, Brindavan, Mathura, etc.
Blessed indeed are those who take part in Parikrama, because they will soon attain peace,
bliss and immortality! Glory to Lord Rama, the Lord of Ayodhya! Glory to Krishna the Indweller of
all hearts, whose special seat is Brindavan! Glory to Bhaktas! May their blessings be upon you all!
Real Flower and Arati
The tower of a temple represents Brahmarandhra. Balipitha represents the navel or

Manipura Chakra. Nandi represents Ajna Chakra. Dhvajastambha represents Sushumna Nadi
which runs from Muladhara to Brahmarandhra.
Dig-devata dwells in the ears, Vayu in the skin, Sun in the eyes, Varuna in the tongue,
Asvins in the nose, Vishnu in the feet, Indra in the hands, Agni in the speech, Prajapati in the
generative organ, Yama in the anus, Sutratman in the Prana, Hiranyagarbha in Antahkarana,
Chandra in mind, Brahma in the intellect, Rudra in egoism, Siva in Chitta, Sarasvati in the end of
the tongue, Parvati in Anahata Chakra, Lakshmi in Manipura Chakra, Ganesa in Muladhara and
Satchidananda Brahman in Brahmarandhra at the crown of the head.
Satya, Ahimsa, Tapas, mercy, love, self-restraint, contentment, forgiveness, Jnana, equal
vision, peace are the real flowers of Puja. All the Nadas are the waters for Abhisheka. The virtuous
actions are the offering of incense. Vedanta is Pitambar. Jnana and Yoga are the Kundalas. Tapas
and meditation are the lights. Japa is Chamara. Anahata is the music. Kirtan is umbrella. Pranayama
is the fan.
Tattvas are the attendants of the Lord. Jnana-Sakti is the Devi. Agama is the commander.
The eight Siddhis are the door-keepers of the Lord. Turiya is the Bhasma. Veda is the bull or Nandi.
Kalyana Gunas represent the Trident in the hand. Panchakshara is the holy thread. Suddha Jiva is
the ornament. The Vrittis are the Pujopakaranas. The Panchabhutas and the five Tanmatras are the
Rudrakshamalas of Lord Siva. Tiger skin represents Ahankara.
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Kriya-Sakti and virtuous actions are Dhupa or incense for the Lord. Chit-Sakti which
produces knowledge is also Dhupa. Offering of the ego and the mind at the lotus-feet of the Lord is
real Naivedya. Just as camphor melts and becomes one with the fire, so also the mind of a sage melts
and the individual soul gets merged in the Supreme Soul. This is real Karpura Arati.
Chapter X
Rudra of the Upanishads
Some ignorant persons think that Rudra is a malevolent, terrific deity who causes
destruction. They believe that Rudra is a God of punishment. It is not so. Rudra is the God who
bestows prosperity and destroys suffering. He is a benevolent Deity who confers auspiciousness,
offspring and cattle. He is the bringer or source of prosperity.
Siva or Rudra means He who removes sin or suffering. The names Bhava, Sarva, Pasupati,
Ugra, Mahadeva, Isana and Asani are applied to Rudra. Pasupati means the Lord or Protector of
cattle.
In the Vedas you will find prayers such as: “O Rudra! May we increase in offspring”.
“Thou, O Rudra, art the most eminent of beings, the strongest of the strong, wielder of the
thunderbolt; protect us, carry us happily across our calamity, drive away all evils”. “Remove from
us whatever sins we have done.” Therefore, Rudra is not a terror-inspiring God, but a bestower of
welfare or prosperity. He is the one great Lord of the Universe.
Rudra is the ideal of mendicants, because Rudra alone, of all the deities, is spoken of in the
scriptures as the mendicant-God. He is mentioned as having, the ascetic water-pot in the Rigveda
hymns.
You will find in the Svetasvatara Upanishad, chapter III: “There is one Rudra only who
rules all the worlds by His powers. There is no one besides Him who can make Him the second. He
is present inside the hearts of all beings. He creates all the worlds and maintains and finally
withdraws them into Himself”.
Rudra represents here Para Brahman or the Supreme Self, the Infinite or the Absolute.
Rudra, after having created all objects, draws together or takes them all back into Himself at
the end of time, i.e., during cosmic Pralaya or dissolution.
Rudra is the destructive aspect of Siva. There are eleven Rudras in the cosmic hierarchy.
Esoterically, the Pranas (or the ten senses) and the mind represent the eleven Rudras. Sri Hanuman
is a manifestation or aspect of Rudra only.
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In Siva-Purana, Rudra is another name for Siva. Rudra is one who destroys the sins and
removes the miseries of His devotees and confers on them wisdom and bliss. Rudra is the
Antaryamin or indweller of all beings. He witnesses silently the actions and thoughts of men and
dispenses the fruits of their actions.
“That one God, having His eyes, His face, His arms and feet in every place, when producing
heaven and earth, forges them together with His arms and His wings”.
May Rudra, the creator and supporter of the gods, the great seer, the Lord of all, who created
at first Hiranyagarbha, endow us with good thought (pure intellect).
“Rudra, with Thy form which is auspicious, which is not dreadful, and which manifests
what is holy, with that all-blessed form, appear to us, O Dweller among the mountains”.
Rudraksha Jabala Upanishad
Haft Om! I praise the Effulgent State of Absolute Peace, belonging to Sri Maharudra, which
is to be known through the Rudraksha Jabala Upanishad.
Bhusunda questioned Lord Kalagnirudra: What is the beginning of Rudraksha beads? What
is the benefit of wearing them on the body?
Lord Kalagnirudra answered him thus: I closed my eyes for the sake of destroying the
Tripura Asuras. From my eyes thus closed, drops of water fell on the earth. These drops of tears
turned into Rudrakshas.
By the mere utterance of the name of ‘Rudraksha’, one acquires the benefit of giving ten
cows in charity. By seeing and touching it, one attains double that benefit. I am unable to praise it
any more.
I closed my eyes one thousand celestial years. Then from my eyelids, drops of water
dropped down and attained the state of immobility for blessing the devoted persons.
This Rudraksha destroys the devotees’ sins that are committed both night and day, by
wearing it.
By mere vision of the Rudraksha, the benefit will be say, a lac. But by wearing them, it will
be a crore. Why, it will be equal to hundred crores.
But it will be a thousand lacs of crores and hundred lacs of crores times powerful when one
does Japa with Rudraksha and wears it at all times.
Among Rudrakshas, one as big as Amalaka (myrobalan), is considered to be the best. One
as big as the Badari fruit (Indian berry) is considered to be of the middle sort. But that as big as
Chana (Bengal gram) is considered to be the worst of all. This is my idea about the size of
Rudraksha beads.
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The four kinds of people, Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas and Sudras are born as merely a
worthless burden on the earth. The real Brahmin is the white Rudraksha. The red is a Kshatriya. The
yellow is a Vaisya. And the black is a Sudra.
Therefore, a Brahmin should wear white Rudrakshas, a Kshatriya the red, a Vaisya the
yellow and a Sudra the black.
One should use those Rudraksha-beads which are nice, handsome, strong, big, auspicious
and thorny. One should avoid those eaten by worms, broken, without thorns, and having sores.
The self-holed Rudraksha is of the best variety. But that which is holed by man’s attempt, is
considered to be worse. Those best Rudrakshas should be strung in white thread. A worshipper of
Siva should wear Rudraksha all over the body. He should wear one bead on the crest, three hundred
round the head, thirty-six round the neck, sixteen round each arm, twelve round the chest and five
hundred round the waist. He should wear a Yajnopavita consisting of one hundred and eight beads
of Rudrakshas. He should wear two, three, five or seven Malas of Rudraksha round the neck.
A Siva-Bhakta should wear Rudrakshas round his crown, ear-ring, chain, round the ear,
armlet, at all times, and specially round the stomach, irrespective of the fact whether he is sleeping,
drinking, etc.
If the devotee wears three hundred beads, it is the worst, if he wears five hundred it will be
medium, but one thousand will be the best of all.
The devotee, when wearing Rudrakshas on the head, should repeat his Ishta Mantra, and
when wearing them round the neck, should repeat the Tat-Purusha Mantra and when wearing round
the throat, should repeat the Aghora Mantra. The same Mantra (Aghora) should be recited when
wearing round the chest also.
He should wear them round the arms with the Aghora Bija Mantra.
Then again Bhusunda asked Lord Kalagnirudra: What are the different forms and effects of
Rudraksha beads? Please tell me about the secret of these blessed ones including their various faces,
which is the means of getting rid of all evil.
Lord Kalagnirudra said: The bead with one face is of the form of the Supreme Truth. A
disciplined one (controlling his senses) mingles himself with the one Eternal Truth, after wearing
these Rudrakshas. (The following is a list of different faces of Rudrakshas and their effects).
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Faces Form Effect of wearing
1. Supreme Truth Attainment of Eternity
2. Ardhanarisvara Grace of Ardhanarisvara
3. Tretagni Grace of Agni
4. Brahma Grace of Brahma
5. Pancha-Brahmas Destruction of homicide sin
6. Karttikeya or Ganesa Attainment of Chitta-Suddhi and Jnana
7. Saptamala Attainment of good health and wealth
8. Ashtamatras (Ashta Vasus) Grace of these Devatas and becoming truthful

or Ganga
9. Nava-Saktis Grace of Nava-Saktis or nine Powers
10. Yama Attainment of Peace.
11. Ekadasa Rudras Increase of all kinds of wealth
12. Mahavishnu or 12 Adityas Attainment of Moksha
13. Cupid Attainment of fulfilling desires and grace of Cupid
14. Rudra Destruction of all diseases
One who wears Rudrakshas, should not use intoxicants, meat, garlic, onions, carrots and all
such prohibited things. By wearing Rudrakshas during eclipses, Vishusankranti (the end of Mina
and beginning of Mesha Masa), new moon, full moon and other such auspicious days, one is freed
of all sins.
The base of the Rudraksha bead is Brahma, its navel is Vishnu, its face is Rudra and its hole
consists of all gods.
One day Sanatkumara asked Kalagnirudra: “O Lord! Tell me the rules for wearing
Rudrakshas”. At that time Nidagha, Jadabharata, Dattatreya, Katyayana, Bharadvaja, Kapila,
Vasishtha, Pippalada, etc., came to Kalagnirudra. Then Lord Kalagnirudra asked them why they all
had come in a group. They all answered that they came to hear the method of wearing Rudrakshas.
Kalagnirudra said: Those that are born out of Rudra’s Akshis (eyes) are called Rudrakshas.
When these beads are even once touched by hand, one attains the glory of giving in charity two
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thousand cows at a time. When they are worn in ears, he gets the effect of giving out eleven
thousand cows in charity. He also attains the state of the eleven Rudras. When the beads are worn on
the head, one has the benefit of giving a crore of cows in charity. Of all these places, I am unable to
tell you the benefit when worn in the ears.
Whoever studies this Rudraksha Jabala Upanishad, be he a boy or a youth, becomes great.
He becomes the Guru of all and the teacher of all Mantras. Havan and Archana should be done with
these Mantras (of the Upanishad).
That Brahmin who recites this Upanishad in the evening, destroys the sins committed
during day time; who recites at noon, destroys the sins of six births; who recites in the morning and
evening, destroys the sins of many births. He attains the same benefit of doing six thousand lacs of
Gayatri Japa.
He becomes purified from all sins of killing a Brahmin, drinking toddy, stealing gold,
approaching Guru’s wife, having intercourse with her, speaking with corrupted person, etc.
He gets the benefits of all pilgrimages and river-baths. He attains Siva-sayujya. He does not
come back (to rebirth).
Bhasma Jabala Upanishad
I am that Absolute Brahman only which, after being understood in its true aspect (as one
with this Atman), entirely burns into ashes (Bhasma) the ignorance (illusion or Maya) of
considering this universe to be existing (real) and separate from one’s own Self, through the
destructive fire of (Supreme) Knowledge!
Once Bhusunda, a descendant of Jabali went to the Kailas Peak and prostrated before Lord
Mahadeva Siva, who is the form of Omkara and who is beyond the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and
Rudra.
Bhusunda worshipped Siva with great devotion again and again through fruits, flowers and
leaves. Then he questioned Lord Siva: “Lord! Kindly impart to me the essential knowledge of all
the Vedas, embodying the process and technique of using the Bhasma (sacred ash), because it is the
only means for attaining Liberation. What is the Bhasma made of? Where should it be applied?
What are the Mantras to be recited? Who are the persons fitted for this? What are the rules regarding
it? Kindly instruct me, born from depressed class.”
The kind Lord Paramesvara said: At first the devotee after understanding the influence of
the celestials at the prescribed time, should fetch some sacred and pure cow-dung early in the
morning, keep it in the leaf of a Palasa-tree and then dry it with the Vedic Mantra ‘Tryambakam’
etc. (in the sun).
Then he should burn that dry cow-dung, placed in a convenient place, with any fire that is
available, according to the rules laid down in the Grihya Sutras of his sect, and then pour Ahutis of
seasamum and paddy together with ghee, with the Mantra ‘Somaya Svaha’. The number of Ahutis
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should be 1008, or if possible, 1 1/2 times this. The instruments for pouring ghee should be made of
leaf; in that case man does not commit any sin.
Then, at the end, the devotee should offer the oblation of Sveshtakruta at the time of
Purna-Ahuti, with the Mantra ‘Tryambakam’ etc. With the same Mantra Bali (an offering) should
be placed in the eight directions (of the fire).
That Bhasma should be sprinkled with water by the Gayatri Mantra. Then that sacred ash
should be placed in a gold, silver, copper or earthen vessel and sprinkled again with the Rudra
Mantras. It should then be kept in a clean and decent place.
Then the devotee should honour the Brahmins with a grand feast.
Then only he will become purified. Then he should take the Bhasma from the vessel with
the Pancha-Brahma-Mantras, ‘Manastoka’, ‘Sadyo Jatam’, etc., and with the idea that ‘fire is
Bhasma, air is Bhasma, water is Bhasma, earth is Bhasma, ether is Bhasma, gods are Bhasma,
Rishis are Bhasma, all this universe and existence are Bhasma; I prostrate to this sacred and
purifying Bhasma which destroys all my sins.’
Thus, the devotee should keep a little Bhasma with the decent left hand saying,
‘Vamadevaya’ (this is to Vamadeva) sprinkling with the Mantra ‘Tryambakam’ etc., and cleaning it
with the Mantra ‘Suddham suddhena’ etc. Then he should filter it nicely. Then he should apply it
from head to foot, with the five Brahma-Mantras. With the first finger, middle finger and ring
finger, he should apply the same to the middle of the head saying ‘to the head’ and ‘O Bhasma!
Thou hast come from Agni!’
Places where Bhasma is to be applied Mantra to be used
1. Forehead Tryambakam etc.
2. Neck Nilagrivaya etc.
3. Right side of neck Tryayusham etc.
4. Cheeks Vama etc.
5. Eyes Kalaya etc.
6. Ears Trilochanaya etc.
7. Face Srinavama etc.
8. Chest Prabravama etc.
9. Navel Atmane etc.
10. Below right shoulder Nabhih etc.
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11. Middle of right shoulder Bhavaya etc.
12. Right side of chest Rudraya etc.
13. Back of right arm Sarvaya etc.
14. Below left shoulder Pasupataye etc.
15. Middle of left shoulder Ugraya etc.
16. Middle of left arm Agrevadhaya etc.
17. Back of left arm Durevadhaya etc.
18. Armpits Namo Hantre etc.
19. All parts Sankaraya etc.
The devotee should then prostrate to Siva with the Mantra ‘Somaya’ etc. He should wash
the hands and drink that ash-water with the Mantra ‘Apah Punantu’ etc. The water should never be
spilt down from any cause.
Thus, this practice of Bhasmadharana should be done in the morning, noon and evening. If
he does not do this, he will become fallen. This very thing is the prescribed Dharma of all Brahmins.
Without having Bhasmadharana in this fashion, he should never take any food, water or anything
else. Accidentally if this practice is forgotten, that day, Gayatri should not be repeated. No Yajna
should be done on that day; no Tarpana should be offered to gods, Rishis or Pitrus. This is the
eternal Dharma that destroys all sins and gives the final state of Moksha.
This is the daily rite of Brahmins, Brahmacharins, Grihasthas, Vanaprasthas and

Sannyasins. If this is overlooked even once, he should stand in water upto the neck, repeating
Gayatri 108 times, and fast the whole day. If a Sannyasin does not wear Bhasma, even a single day,
he should fast during the whole day and do 1000 Pranava Japa, for being purified once again.
Otherwise, the Lord will throw these Sannyasins to dogs and wolves.
In case this kind of Bhasma is not available, any other Bhasma that may be at hand should be
used with the prescribed Mantras. This kind of practice shall destroy any kind of sin that may be
committed by man.
Then again Bhusunda asked Siva: What are the daily rites to be performed by a Brahmin, by
neglecting which he will commit a sin? Who is to be then meditated upon? Who is to be
remembered? How to meditate? Where to practice this? Please tell me in detail.
The Lord answered all in a nutshell: First of all the devotee should get up early in the
morning before sunrise, and after finishing the purificatory actions, should take his bath. He should
clean the body with the Rudra Suktas. Then he should wear a clean cloth. After this, he should
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meditate on the sun-god and apply Bhasma to all the prescribed parts of the body. He should then
wear white Rudraksha, as prescribed. Some prescribe the following way of applying Bhasma:
Places No. of times (lines)
1. Head 40
2. Chest 1 or 3
3. Ears 11
4. Neck 32
5. Arms 16 each
6. Throat 12 each side
7. Thumbs 6 each
Then the devotee should observe Sandhya with the Kusa grass in his hand. He should do
Japa of either Siva-Shadakshara or Siva-Ashtakshara. ‘Om Namah Sivaya’ and ‘Om Namo
Mahadevaya’ are the two Mantras. This is the highest truth and the greatest instruction. I myself am
that Great Lord Siva, God of all gods, the Supreme Controller of all the universes. I am that
Impersonal Brahman, I am Omkara, I am the Creator, Preserver and Destroyer of all. Through My
terror only, all are working properly. I am this world and the five elements. I am the Highest Truth
that exists, the Brahman of the Upanishads. This is the greatest Vidya.
I am the only giver of Moksha. Hence all people come to Me for final help. That is why I
absorb into My Being those creatures who leave their Pranas at Banares which is standing at the top
of My Trisula (trident). Therefore, everyone should perform penance at Banares only. Banares
should not be neglected under any circumstance. Everybody should try to live at Banares as far as
possible. No place is better than Banares.
Even at Banares, the most celebrated is the temple of Siva, where in the East, there is the
place of Wealth, in the South, the place of Vichara, in the West, the place of Vairagya and in the
North, the place of Jnana. There in the middle, I, the Eternal Spirit should be worshipped. That
Linga at Banares, is not illumined by the sun, moon or the stars. That self-luminous Linga called
‘Visvesvara’ has its root in Pathala. That is Myself. I should be worshipped by one who wears the
sacred Bhasma and Rudrakshas in the prescribed manner. I shall deliver him from all sins and
sorrows.
By performing My Abhisheka, he attains My Sayujya state. Nothing exists other than

Myself. I initiate all with the Taraka Mantra. Those who want Mukti should live at Banares. I will
take care of them. I am the Lord of Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra. The most corrupt man or woman
will attain Moksha, if he or she dies at Banares. Other sinners will be fried in burning pits of live
coals after death. Therefore, everybody should try to live at Banares which is My Pranalinga Itself.
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Tripura-Tapini-Upanishad
I praise that Supreme Truth which is Knowledge Absolute, which is to be known through
the Vidya of the Tripura-Tapini-Upanishad.
The Lord assumed the form of destructive ferociousness and then He covered Himself all
over the three worlds, Bhuh, Bhuvah and Svah. Then He had that power of the Adi-Sakti, i.e., the
Adi-Sakti burst out from His heart. This is the Sakti called the Maya of Siva and She is understood
by the fundamental syllable ‘Hrim’. The whole universe was then covered by this Sakti. Since She
covered the three worlds or Tripuras, She has been styled as ‘Tripura’.
This Tripura Sakti has the following Vidya called Sri Vidya which can be derived from the
following Vedic Mantras:
t:ts:ev:t:Øv:ürðNy:ö B:g::ðü dðv:sy: D:im:eh . eD:y::ð y::ð n:H

)c::ðdy:at:Î . p:r:ð rj:s:ð s:av:d:ðm:Î .
j:at:v:ðds:ð s:Øn:v:am: s::ðm:m:rat:iy:t::ð en:dhaet: v:ðdH .
s:n:H p:\:üdet: dÙg:aüeN: ev:Ã:a n:av:ðv: es:nD:Øö dÙert:aty:egn:H ..
*y:öb:kö y:j:am:hð s:Øg:enD:ö p:ØeÄv:D:ün:m:Î .
Uv:aü,kem:v: b:nD:n:anm:àty::ðm:Øüx:iy: m:a|m:àt:at:Î ..
tatsaviturvareõyaü bhargo devasya dhãmahi | dhiyo yo naþ
pracodayàt | paro rajase sàvadom |
jàtavedase sunavàma somamaràtãyato nidahàti vedaþ |
sanaþ parùadati durgàõi vi÷và nàveva sindhuü duritàtyagniþ ||
tryaübakaü yajàmahe sugandhiü puùñivardhanam |
årvàrukamiva bandhanànmçtyormukùãya mà.amçtàt ||
This Vidya consisting of one hundred letters is the Supreme Vidya in its entirety. This is
Paramesvari, Tripura Herself.
Out of the above Mantras, the first four stanzas deal with the exposition of the glory of the
Para-Brahman. The second set of stanzas deals with the Mahima of Sakti. The third set deals with
the glory of Siva Himself.
In this Vidya, all the worlds, all the Vedas, all the Sastras, all the Puranas and all the
Dharmas have been dealt with and this is the Effulgence that has come out of the combination of
Siva and Sakti.
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Now, we shall comment on the most important and the hidden meanings of these verses.
Here the great word ‘Tat’ means Para-Brahman Itself, the Eternity. This is the symbol used for that
Lord who is beyond all definitions and arguments. This Lord is the embodiment of Supreme
Knowledge itself. That is, He wishes to be in the form of Knowledge Absolute. He alone is the great
Lord Siva who is always desired by sages, Yogins, etc., in Yajnas. Therefore there is the creation of
desire.
Thus, this Lord who is beyond the reach of all desires, still desires and is being desired. He
creates the alphabetical list of language. Therefore, the Lord is called ‘Kama’ or desire. The letter
representing Kama is called ‘Ka’. Therefore the word ‘Tat’ represents the letter ‘Ka’. This is the
meaning of the word ‘Tat’.
‘Savituh’ comes from the Sanskrit root-word ‘Sunj Praniprasave’, which means the
Generator or producer of all beings. He is the great Power. Power means Sakti. This great Sakti or
Devi called Tripura, is embodied in the Mahakundali (Yantra). Thus, the fire-globe (of the sun)
should be known by the intelligent. This Sakti or power of Trikona (triangular figure) bears out the
letter called ‘E’. Therefore we should learn the word ‘E’ from the word ‘Savituh’.
‘Varenyam’ means that which is fit to be adored and worshipped, which is the imperishable
and the praiseworthy. Therefore, it should be understood that the letter ‘E’ should be taken from the
word ‘Varenyam’. ‘Bhargo’ and ‘Dhimahi’ will be now commented upon. The letter ‘Dha’ means
Dharana or concentration. The Lord is always concentrated upon by the ‘Dhi’ or the intellect or
Buddhi. ‘Bharga’ is the Lord Himself who can be understood only by reaching the fourth stage or
Avastha and this is the Being that pervades all and all. The letter representing this fourth stage is
called ‘I’ and this is the real meaning of the above-mentioned words of the Mantra. We shall now
talk of the word ‘Mahi’. ‘Mahi’ means greatness, idleness, strength, stubbornness, and this applies
to that element which possesses all these qualities. That is the earth which is represented by the
letter ‘La’. This is the Supreme state. Thus, this Lakara shows the quality of the earth in its being the
embodiment of all oceans, forests, mountains and the seven islands. Therefore the form of Devi
called the earth, is termed ‘Mahi’.
Now about ‘Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat’. Para or the Supreme is the Imperishable Siva
Himself, the Eternal Soul. The underlying meaning here is this: We should meditate on the
immobile form of Lakara or Jyotirlinga or Lord Siva which is the most supreme thing that ever
exists anywhere. Here, there is no desire for any Dhyana whatsoever. It is beyond all Dhyanas.
Therefore, we are requesting the Lord to direct our minds to be established in that Nirvikalpa State
where there is no thinking at all. This request should not be made through the mouth. It should be
simply thought of in the mind.
Then ‘Paro Rajase Savadom’. After meditating on the form of the Supreme Truth, there will
come out a big effulgence, pure and blissful, full of knowledge which is residing inside the heart.
This is the essence of all speech and Knowledge. This is the true Sakti. And this is called the
Panchakshara, since it is the creator of the Pancha Bhutas or the five elements. This should be
understood correctly by the intelligent.
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This is the Vidya giving all desires to the devotee. Thus, after understanding in its true
aspect, this Vidya of thirtytwo letters, the devotee Should think of the letter called ‘Ha’ which is the
form of Siva, who is the Imperishable, pure State. The letter derived out of the combination of the
sun and the moon, that is, the combination of Siva and Sakti is ‘Ha’ and it is also named as ‘Hamsa’.
This is the seed of Kama. Through this Vidya, we can know the Supreme Lord Siva.
This combination is also understood as being the merging of the Jivatma in the Supreme
Paramatman. Thus ‘Ha’ means the Eternal Stage or the Final Emancipation.
This is the derivation of the Sri Vidya. One who knows this, attains the form of Rudra. He
bursts open the residence of Vishnu and reaches the Para-Brahman.
Then about the second Mantra. This Mantra glorifies the Mahima of Tripura Devi.
By the word ‘Jata’ Lord Siva is meant. He who gave birth to the first letters of the
‘Varna-Matrika’ of the form of the ‘Bindurupa’ of Omkara in the very beginning is called ‘Jata’. Or
else, it may also be said that because He desired at the very beginning the fulfilment of His Kama,
when He was just born, He is called ‘Jata’. The Knowledge of Devi Tripura should be thus carefully
analysed in the same manner by dissecting the Mantra into its different words (according to
Mantra-Sastra). Then all kinds of ‘Raksha’ or defence can be had from this Mantra. The first thing
that is to be understood here is that ‘Jata’ is the One Lord, the Effulgent Being. This should be taken
as the foundation of all Vidyas pertaining to Tripura. Here, it should also be understood that the
letter ‘Sa’ refers to the power of Sakti and the letter ‘Somam’ refers to the State of Siva. Whosoever
knows this becomes famous and important.
Thus, this Vidya where Devi Tripura resides at all times should be taken to be the basis of all
Vidyas and the devotee should always be studying this Vidya and reciting it. This Vidya is the
embodiment of the Powers of Siva and Sakti. This Vidya is called the limb of Sri Tripuramba
Herself. The same Vidya, when used for meditating purposes, is called ‘Sarvatodhira’.
The Sri Vidya Chakra of Tripura is the King of all Chakras. This gives one, anything that he
wants and this can be worshipped by anybody, without restriction. This Chakra is the gateway to
Moksha, and Yogins after bursting the Brahman through this Vidya, attain that permanent Bliss.
This Chakra is the house of Tripuradevi.
Then about the Mrityunjaya Anushtup Mantra. ‘Tryambakam’ (Trayanam Ambakam)

means the ‘Lord of the three’ worlds. ‘Trayanam’ means ‘of the three’ worlds. ‘Ambakam’ is the
Lord of it. ‘Yajamahe’ means ‘Sevamahe’ or do service. Besides this, the word ‘Mahe’ means
‘Mrityunjaya’ or the destroyer of death. Therefore, the word ‘Yajamahe’ is very important here.
The word ‘Sugandhim’ means ‘to derive fame from all quarters’. And the word
‘Pushtivardhanam’ means ‘one who creates all the worlds, preserves all the worlds, pervades all the
worlds and gives salvation to all the worlds’.
‘Urvarukam’ means ‘cucumber’. ‘Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityormukshiya Mamritat’.

A cucumber is tied with a rope. Similarly the human being and other creatures are tied by the bonds
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of Samsara. Here, it means to deliver the earthly beings from the Mayaic bond to the Eternal Bliss,
just as a cucumber is delivered free from the creeper.
A person who wants to conquer death should repeat the Mantra ‘Mrityunjaya’. etc. One who
wishes to become Rudra, should make use of the Mantra ‘Om Namah’. Then he will certainly
derive the best benefit out of it.
Then there is another Mantra. ‘Tad Vishnoh Paramam Padam’, etc. Vishnu is one who
pervades all the universe. His supreme state which is just like the sky is called ‘Paramam Padam’.
‘Surayah’ means scholars or those intelligent who have understood the Reality, i.e., Brahma, etc.
That Supreme State of Vishnu is lying or residing in each and every being. By ‘residing’, we mean
‘Vasati.’ Therefore, He is called ‘Vasudeva’. The powerful twelve letters of Sri Vasudeva ‘Om
Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’, are everything. They are sufficient to absolve one from all sins. The
knower of this Mantra reaches that Brahma-Purusha who is in the form of the embodiment of the
three letters A, U and M.
Then, we have got another powerful Mantra ‘Hamsa Suchishat’, etc. This is the great
Mantra of the Sun-God. And the other Mantra which is to be known is ‘Gananam Tva’, etc. This is
the Mantra of Ganapati. One who knows and repeats these Mantras that belong to Siva, Vishnu,
Surya and Ganapati, will get the direct revelation of Devi Tripura.
In the Gayatri, there are four forms. In the morning, She is called Gayatri. In the noon, She is
called Savitri. In the evening, She is called Sarasvati. She is always called Ajapa when She is having
the fourth Pada with Her. This Devi is having the form of fifty alphabets from the letter ‘A’ to the
letter ‘Ksha’. All the Sastras and the world are covered by the Devi in this form. Prostrations to Her
again and again.
So, any devotee who worships Devi Tripura with these Mantras, becomes the true seer of
the Reality. He then attains Moksha. This should be known correctly by everybody.
Now, we shall expound the Karmakanda of the Tripura-worship. This Sakti or the Adimaya
directs the Supreme Brahman. That Brahman is Knowledge Absolute, and is termed Paramatman.
This Supreme Being is the Hearer, Knower, Seer, Commander, Perceiver and the Supreme Purusha
who resides in the Atman of all beings. This is to be known. There is no world, no non-world, no
God, no non-God, no being, no non-being, no Brahmin and no non-Brahmin, at all. Thus shines the
Nirvana called Para-Brahman.
The mind that is thinking of something, is called Baddha. That which does not think of
anything is called Mukta. Then only this Brahman can be understood. Therefore, everybody should
keep his mind free from thoughts of objects.
Until the mind is devoid of all thoughts, one should try to control the Pranas. This is the
eternal knowledge. All other things are merely unnecessary scriptural descriptions. There is no
difference between thinking and non-thinking in the Para-Brahman. All are same there. There is
nothing to be thought of and there is nobody to think.
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Thus finally, the devotee should understand gradually that Brahman is his own Self and then
he will attain the Blissful Emancipation.
Now the Supreme Truth is revealed. There is no one who longs for liberation, there is no one
who is liberated, there is no Vairagya, there is no Sadhana, there is no destruction.
There are two Brahmans, namely Sabda Brahman and Para Brahman. One who has
mastered the Sabda Brahman, attain to the Para Brahman. After acquiring all the knowledge
through books, the intelligent man should throw away those books, just like the husk thrown away
by one who wants only the internal kernel of the grain.
Thus the Supreme Brahman-State is described. One who knows this Great Vidya should be
worshipped by others. There is no doubt about it. This is the great Upanishad.
Rudra Upanishad
Now, at this moment, I take refuge in that Pure State of the Supreme Absolute which can be
known by the Vidya, called the Rudra Hridaya Upanishad.
After prostrating before the celebrated form of Sri Mahadeva-Rudra in his heart, adoring the
sacred Bhasma and Rudraksha and mentally reciting the great Mahavakya-Mantra, Tarasara, Sri
Suka asked his father Sri Vyasa Maharshi, thus:
Who is the real God of gods? In whom are all these existences established? By worshipping
whom, can I please the Devas in whole?
Hearing these words, Sri Veda Vyasa replied thus:
Rudra is the embodiment of all Devas. All devas are merely different manifestations of Sri
Rudra Himself. On the right side of Rudra, there is the sun, then the four-headed Brahma, and then
three Agnis (fires). On the left side, there exist Sri Umadevi, and also Vishnu and Soma (moon).
Uma Herself is the form of Vishnu. Vishnu Himself is the form of the moon. Therefore,
those who worship Lord Vishnu, worship Siva Himself. And those who worship Siva, worship
Lord Vishnu in reality. Those who envy and hate Sri Rudra, are actually hating Sri Vishnu. Those
who decry Lord Siva, decry Vishnu Himself.
Rudra is the generator of the seed. Vishnu is the embryo of the seed. Siva Himself is Brahma
and Brahma Himself is Agni. Rudra is full of Brahma and Vishnu. The whole world is full of Agni
and Soma. The masculine gender is Lord Siva. The feminine gender is Sri Bhavani Devi. All the
mobile and immobile creation of this universe, is filled up with Uma and Rudra. The Vyakta is Sri
Uma, and the Avyakta is Lord Siva. The combination of Uma and Sankara is Vishnu.
Hence everybody should prostrate to Sri Maha Vishnu with great devotion. He is the
Atman. He is the Paramatman. He is the Antaratman. Brahma is the Antaratman. Siva is the
Paramatman. Vishnu is the Eternal Atman of all this universe. This whole creation of Svarga,
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Martya and Patala Lokas is a big tree. Vishnu is the top portion (branches) of this tree. Brahma is the
stem. The root is Lord Siva.
The effect is Vishnu. The action is Brahma. The cause is Siva. For the benefit of the worlds.
Rudra has taken these three forms.
Rudra is Dharma. Vishnu is the world. Brahma is Knowledge. Therefore, do Kirtan of His
name, ‘Rudra’, ‘Rudra’. By singing like this, the hallowed name of this great Lord, all your sins will
be destroyed.
Rudra is man. Uma is woman. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is Brahma. Uma is Sarasvati. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is Vishnu. Uma is Lakshmi. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is Sun. Uma is shadow. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is moon. Uma is star. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is day. Uma is night. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is Yajna. Uma is Vedi. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is Agni, Uma is Svaha. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is Veda. Uma is Sastra. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is tree. Uma is creeper. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is scent. Uma is flower. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is meaning. Uma is word. Prostrations to Him and Her.
Rudra is Linga. Uma is Pitha. Prostrations to Him and Her.
The devotee should worship Sri Rudra and Uma with these Mantras referred to above. O my
son, Suka! With these hymns, you should meditate on the Eternal Para-Brahman, which is beyond
the reach of the senses, which is pure Existence, knowledge and Bliss and which cannot be
understood either by the speech or by the mind. After knowing this, there is nothing more to be
known, because everything is the form of That, and there is nothing separate from That.
There are two Vidyas to be known. They are Para and Apara. Apara Vidya is the
embodiment of the four Vedas and their six Angas. They do not deal with the Nature of the Atman.
But the Para Vidya is called the Moksha-Sastra. It deals with that supreme philosophy of the
Absolute Truth, ununderstandable, impersonal, Nirguna, Nirakara, without ears, without eyes,
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without hands, without feet, eternal, omnipresent, imperishable, and knowable by the intelligent
daring sages.
From that Lord Siva who performs a terrible penance in the form of Supreme Jnana-Marga,
this whole world is created which is the food of the mortals. This world is Maya. It seems to appear
just like a dream. It is superimposed on the Lord just like a rope on a serpent. This is the eternal
Truth. There is no creation in reality. All is absolute. All is Truth. Knowing this, one is liberated at
once.
Only through Jnana, you can get rid of this Samsara. Only through Jnana, you can
understand this existence and never through Karma. Understand this through the guidance of a
Brahmanishtha-Srotriya Guru. The Guru will give the disciple all the necessary knowledge of
Brahman, the Absolute. By cutting off the bondage of Ajnana or Avidya, one should take refuge in
Lord Sadasiva. This is the real wisdom to be understood by an aspirant seeking after Truth.
The Pranava is the bow. The Atman is the arrow. The Para-Brahman is the target. Just like
the arrow, the Atman will become one with Brahman.
But all these three, the bow, the arrow and the target are not different from that Sadasiva.
There do not shine the bodies of the sun, moon or the stars. There does not blow the wind, there do
not exist many Devatas. He, the One Lord only exists. He only, the Purity of purities, shines for ever
and ever.
There are two birds in this body, the Jiva and the Paramatman. The Jiva eats the fruit of his
Karmas, but the Paramatman is untouched by anything. The Paramatman is only the Sakshi. He
does not do anything. He only assumes the form of the Jiva through His Maya, just as the Akasa
inside a pot seems to be different from the Akasa outside and assumes the form of the pot. In reality
all is Siva, Advaita, the One Absolute. There is no difference of whatever kind.
When all is understood to be One, Omkara, the Absolute, there is no sorrow, there is no
Maya. Then the attainment of the Advaita-Paramananda is very easy. Think that you are the basis of
all this universe, you are the One, Kevala, Sat-Chit-Ghana. All people cannot understand this Truth.
Those devoid of Maya can know this secret. After knowing this, the Atman does not move towards
any place at any time. It becomes one with the Absolute, just like Ghatakasa with Paramakasa. Just
as Akasa does not move anywhere, similarly this Atman does not have any movement. It becomes
one with OM.
One who knows this great secret Truth is the real Muni. He becomes the Para-Brahman
Itself. He becomes Satchidananda. He attains permanent peace.
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Chapter XI
THE SAIVA ACHARYAS
Appar or Tirunavukkarasar
Appar is one of the four Tamil Samaya Acharyas. He was a contemporary of Sambandhar.
He was a Vellala or Tiru Amur in the district of Cuddalore, Tamilnadu. He was born of Pugalenar
and Mathiniar. The parents gave the name Marulneekiar (dispeller of darkness or ignorance) to
Appar. Appar means father. Sambandhar gave Marulneekiar this name. The name Appar was first
used by Sambandhar in addressing him in one of the several meetings between them. Appar’s
soul-stirring and sublime odes earned the title Tirunavukkarasar or the Lord of speech. He was a
God-inspired soul. He sang devotional odes or Padigams during his pilgrimage to various shrines.
He flourished in the middle of the seventh century A.D. He was a mystic and poet.
Tilakavadhiar was the elder sister of Appar. She was betrothed to Kalippahaiyar, a military
commander under the Pallava king. Kalippahaiyar had to fight against some invader from the
North. He died in the battle-field. Tilakavadhiar’s parents also died. The news of the death of
Kalippahaiyar reached the ears of Tilakavadhiar. She made up her mind to enter the funeral pyre.
Marulneekiar came to know of the intention of his sister. He ran to his sister, prostrated before her
and said: “I am keeping my life on account of your support only, after the death of our parents. If
you want to give up your life, I will give up my life before you do so”. The heart of Tilakavadhiar
melted. She changed her determination and resolved to lead the ascetic life and bring up her
helpless younger brother.
Appar became a convert to Jainism. He studied all the Jain scriptures. He went to Pataliputra
itself and became one of the spiritual heads there, as he was an erudite scholar in the Jain scriptures.
Appar’s sister was very much afflicted at heart when she came to know that her brother
became a convert to Jainism. She left her native village and went to Tiru Atikai, a neighbouring
town. She spent her time in meditation and prayer at the Siva’s temple. She prayed to the Lord for
his return.
Appar fell a victim to a severe colic which could not be cured. He threw off the garb of a
Jain, his bowl and went to his sister. She smeared the holy ashes on the forehead of Appar and took
him to the temple of Siva and asked him to prostrate before the Lord and worship Him. Appar acted
accordingly. The severe colic vanished at once. He praised Lord Siva.
The spiritual head of the Jains at Pataliputra reported to Kadava, the Jain king, about the
absconding of Appar. The district of Cuddalore was under the sway of the Pallava king Kadava.
The spiritual head induced the king to persecute Appar.
Appar proceeded to the Pallava capital and appeared before the king. Appar was persecuted
in various ways. He was thrown into a burning lime-kiln. He was compelled to drink poisoned milk.
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An elephant was sent to kill him. A heavy stone was tied to him and he was thrown into the sea.
Lord saved him. He floated alive and reached the shore at Tiruppatirupuliyur.
The Pallava king recognised the greatness of Appar and prostrated at his feet. He gave up
Jainism and embraced Saivism. He built a magnificent temple of Siva called Gunathara Vicharam
at Tirunadhikai.
Thereupon, Appar proceeded on a pilgrimage to various sacred places. He visited

Chidambaram, Sirkali and other places and sang Tevaram or odes in praise of Lord Siva.
Appar met the saint Appudi Adigal at Tingalur. Appar brought to life Appudi’s son, who
was bitten by a cobra.
Thereupon, Appar visited holy places such as Tiruvanainallur, Tiruvamathur, Tirukoilur

and Tirupennakatam and worshipped Lord Siva. He finally reached Tirutunganaimadam and
prayed to Lord Siva: “O Siva Sankara! O Ardhanarisvara! O source and end of all beings! I do not
wish to keep the body which was in touch with the Jains. Let me have the stamp of Your trident and
Nandi on my body”. He sang a Padigam. At once a Sivagana approached Appar through the grace
of Lord Siva, and put the stamp of trident and Nandi on the shoulder of Appar.
Then Appar proceeded to Sirkali to meet Sambandhar. He fell at the feet of Sambandhar.
Sambandhar addressed the Vellala saint: “O my beloved Appar”.
Once, Sambandhar went in a palanquin to Tiruppuntiruti in the district of Tanjore to meet

Appar. Appar went in advance and carried the palanquin. Sambandhar asked: “Where is Appar?”
Appar replied: “Here am I, carrying the palanquin”. Sambandhar at once got down from the
palanquin, embraced Appar and shed tears of love.
Appar went to Tiruchattimutram. He sang a Padigam and said: “O Lord, place Thy
lotus-feet on my head before I leave this physical body”. He heard an Akasavani or voice in the sky:
“Come to Tirunallure”. Appar acted accordingly and went to Tirunallure. Lord Siva placed His feet
on the head of Appar. Appar prostrated on the ground. His heart was filled with indescribable
delight.
Then Appar went to Tiruvambhar, Tirukadavur and Milalai. There was great famine in
Milalai. Appar and Sambandhar were very much grieved at heart as the devotees of Lord Siva were
starving. Lord Siva appeared in the dream of both and said: “Do not be afflicted, I shall give you
gold-pieces”. They found gold-pieces daily in the temple and fed the people sumptuously.
Appar and Sambandhar visited the temple at Vedaranyam in the district of Tanjore. Here, an
old temple of Lord Siva had long remained with doors shut. The Vedas themselves had come and
worshipped Siva in the temple and they now did not offer their worship, because people neglected
the study of Vedas on account of the influence of Jainism. Sambandhar said to Appar: “Come, and
sing that these doors may be opened”. Appar sang and the doors opened. Sambandhar sang and the
doors shut.
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THE SAIVA ACHARYAS
On one occasion, Appar was very hungry during his pilgrimage tour. Lord Siva created a
tank and garden on, the way and gave him food also.
Appar started on a journey to visit Mount Kailas. He had a tiresome journey. He had severe
bruises on his feet. He heard a voice in the sky. It was the voice of Lord Siva. The voice said: “O
Appar, wake up. Take a dip in this tank. You will see Me and Mt. Kailas in Tiruvayar”. Appar took a
dip in the tank and appeared in a temple in Tiruvayar on the banks of Kaveri. He came outside the
tank and saw Siva and Sakti everywhere. He entered the temple and saw Mt. Kailas and the Lord
Siva of Mt. Kailas. Appar rejoiced heartily at the marvellous sight and sang Padigams.
Finally Appar stayed at Pumpukalar near Tiruvalur and spent here the last years of his life.
He was tested here by the Lord, in order to show his greatness to the people. When he was serving in
the temple, gold and diamond appeared under his feet. Appar regarded them as stones and threw
them away. On another occasion, celestial damsels appeared before him and tempted him in a
variety of ways; but Appar remained undisturbed in his meditation. He merged himself in the Light
of lights, Lord Siva, when he was much advanced in age.
II
Appar laid the foundation of Saiva Siddhanta school of philosophy, by means of his poems.
Appar’s poems are full of imagination, spiritual insight, religious emotion and high spiritual
realisation.
Appar was more learned than Sambandhar. He had a very powerful personality. He led an
exemplary life as a Siva Bhakta. He put an end to the influence of Jainism. He always praised the
five letters, the Panchakshara. He says: “The rare jewel of the Brahmins is the Veda with six Angas;
the rare jewel for the Saivites is the Panchakshara”. His exemplary life, mellifluous poetry, vast
erudition and profound religious fervour attracted countless people. He had countless admirers and
disciples. He had great influence. Appar’s works consist of three hundred poems which form three
books out of twelve in the Tamil collection of Saivite poetry known as Tirumurai.
Appar says: “Everything is the manifestation of Lord Siva. Siva is Narayana, Brahma, the
four Vedas, the holiest, the oldest, the perfect. Though Siva is all these, He is none of these. He is
without name, without birth, death or disease. He is at once the transcendent and immanent.
“Love of Lord Siva must be felt and manifested. Sing. Pray. Worship. Weep. Dance. Lord
Siva is the music or melody in the song, the sweetness in the fruit, the thought in the mind, the lustre
in the eyes. He is neither male nor female. He is without dimensions.
“Subdue the senses. Practise regular meditation. Practise Chariyai, Kriyai, Yoga and Jnana.
Practise regular meditation. Develop dispassion (Vairagya). Transcend the three bodies. Unite the
individual soul with the Supreme Soul or Lord Siva. You will attain eternal bliss and immortality.
You can behold Lord Siva if you look for Him with the light of wisdom issuing forth from the wick
of life, fed with the ghee of meditation, in the lamp of the mind, within the house of your body.
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“Plough with truth. Plant the seed of desire for knowledge. Weed out falsehood. Irrigate the
mind with the water of patience. Supervise your work by looking within or introspection and
self-analysis. Build the fence of Yama and Niyama or right conduct and right rules. You will soon
attain Sivanandam or eternal bliss of Siva.
“Regard your body as the temple of Lord Siva, your mind as the worshipper, truth as purity
which is necessary for worship, the jewel of the mind as the Linga, love as the ghee, milk, etc.
Perform Puja to Lord Siva thus. Lord Siva cannot be obtained without making the mind one-pointed
and meditation on the Panchakshara.”
May you all follow the precepts and teachings of Appar and attain the Siva-Pada, the
immortal abode of eternal bliss!
Tirujnana Sambandhar
Sambandhar took his birth in a Brahmin family in Sirkali in the district of Tanjore which is
also known by the name Brahmapuri. He was born of Bhagavati and Sivapadahridayar. Bhagavati
and Sivapadahridayar went to the tank to take their bath. The child also accompanied his parents.
They left the child on the bank and proceeded to take bath. The child cried aloud: “O father!” as he
did not see his parents. The parents did not hear the cry of the child, but Lord Siva and Parvati heard
his cry. They both appeared before the child. Parvati gave milk to the child. The child drank the
milk of divine knowledge along with the milk. From that moment he began to sing the praises of
Lord Siva in various temples. He sang soul-stirring, sublime Tevarams or odes. This incident
occurred when the child was three years old.
The parents finished their bath and came near the child. Milk was flowing from his mouth
and there were tears in his eyes. The parents asked: “My beloved child, who gave you milk?” The
child sang a hymn and narrated everything to his parents. The parents rejoiced heartily and gave to
the child the name Tiru-Jnana Sambandhar as he attained divine wisdom through the grace of Lord
Siva and Parvati. He was also known by the name Pillayar.
Thereupon Sambandhar proceeded to Tirukkolakka. He sang a hymn or ode in the temple.

Lord Siva presented him with a gold cymbal.
There was a devotee of Lord Siva in Tiruyerukkattampuliyur. He could play well on the
musical instrument Yal. His name was Tirunilakantha Yalpanar. He went to Sirkali to pay his
respects to Sambandhar. Sambandhar took him to the temple of Lord Siva and heard his music.
Yalpanar prayed to Sambandhar and said: “Let me always live with you playing thy hymns on Yal.
Grant me my prayer”. Sambandhar agreed. Thereupon, Sambandhar and his parents and Yalpanar
proceeded to Chidambaram and worshipped Nataraja. One day, Sambandhar saw the three
thousand Brahmins of Chidambaram as the three thousand Siva Ganas.
Sambandhar wanted to worship the Lord at Aratturai. He walked on foot. He got tired and so
he rested on the way in Maranpadi during the night. As he was a small boy, his tender feet were
much affected by the long walk. The Lord of Aratturai appeared in the dream of the priests and told
them: “Sambandhar is coming to Me. Take the pearl umbrella and the pearl palanquin which are
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THE SAIVA ACHARYAS
now in the temple and hand them over to him”. The priests woke up and went to the temple. They
saw the articles which they saw in their dream there. They took them, went to Maranpadi and gave
them to Sambandhar. They informed Sambandhar about the command of the Lord. Sambandhar
also knew this already as the Lord informed him also about this, in his dream.
Thereupon, the thread ceremony of Sambandhar was performed by the priests. Sambandhar
did not study the Vedas and the Vedangas, but he repeated them and explained them to the priests.
The priests were struck with wonder.
Appar heard all about the glory of Sambandhar. He came from Chidambaram to Sirkali to
pay his respects to Sambandhar. Sambandhar came forward to receive Appar. They both spoke
words of affection and love. Appar remained in the house of Sambandhar for some days.
The daughter of the king of Malaya country was suffering from an incurable disease. The
king tried all sorts of medicines. Finally, he took her to the temple at Tiruppaccil Acciramam and
left her there before the Lord. Sambandhar visited the temple and saw the princess in an
unconscious state. His heart melted. He sang a Padigam and worshipped Lord Siva. The last line in
every stanza ends: “Is it right for the Lord to cause suffering to this girl?” At once, the princess
became all right. She got up and prostrated at the lotus-feet of Sambandhar.
Then Sambandhar proceeded to Tiruppattisvaram temple. It was a very hot day. Lord Siva
of Tiruppattisvaram temple sent a pearl palanquin through His Ganas to ward off the heat of the sun.
Sambandhar sang a Padigam and received one thousand gold coins from the Lord of
Avadutturai. In the Padigam, he asks in every stanza: “Is this the way of Your looking after my
interests? If You do not give me anything, is that Your grace?” He gave the gold coins to his father.
Sambandhar proceeded to Tirumarugal. There a traveller was bitten by a snake. His wife
was bemoaning the death of her husband. Sambandhar sang a Padigam. The traveller was brought
back to life.
There was severe famine at Tiruvilimilalai. Sambandhar received one measure of gold
every day from the Lord at Tiruvilimilala. He purchased provisions for this money and fed all Siva
Bhaktas.
Kulaccirai, minister of the Pandian king invited Sambandhar to his place. He was a devotee
of Lord Siva. Mangayarkkarasi, the queen was also a devotee of Lord Siva. Sambandhar visited
Madurai and worshipped the Lord there.
The Jains set fire to the camp of Sambandhar. Sambandhar sang a Padigam. The fire was
extinguished, but the Pandian king got severe fever. The doctors and the Jains were not able to cure
him. The king requested Sambandhar to cure him. Sambandhar sang a Padigam in praise of the holy
ashes and applied them to the king’s body. At once, the king became all right.
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Thereupon it was decided that both Sambandhar and the Jains were to put their writings into
the fire and that if Sambandhar’s religion was the better one, the palm leaves which he put into the
fire should not be burnt. Sambandhar came out successful in the test.
Afterwards, there was another test. The Jains said that the palm leaf which contained the
writings of a true religion should go against the current of the Vaigai river. The minister said: “What
is the punishment for those who are defeated in the test?” The Jains replied: “Those who are
defeated will be hanged”. The Jains put a palm leaf in the river. It went along the current of the river.
Sambandhar wrote one of his poems and threw it into the Vaigai. It went against the current and
reached the place known as Tiruvedangam. Sambandhar sang a Padigam to stop the palm leaf. It
stopped. The minister ran, took the leaf and showed it to the king.
Then some of the Jains were hanged. The rest embraced Saivism. Sambandhar went with
the king and queen to the temple at Madurai and praised the Lord there.
Sambandhar wanted to go to Tirukkollampudur to have Darsana of the Lord there, but there
was flood in the river. The boatmen gave up the idea of crossing it. They tied the boat somewhere
and left the bank. Sambandhar took the boat, sang a Padigam and went over to the other side along
with his party.
The devotees of Sambandhar were blowing the trumpet of victory when they were
travelling. The Buddhists became very jealous of this. They informed their spiritual head,
Buddhanandi. Buddhanandi called Sambandhar for discussion.
Sambandhararanalayar, a disciple of Sambandhar who was recording all the songs of his
master, sang a Padigam sung by Sambandhar and said: “A thunder will fall on the head of this
Buddhanandi”. At once, a thunder fell on the head of Buddhanandi. He died immediately. Some
Buddhists ran away. Some others embraced Saivism and applied the holy ashes on their forehead.
Thereupon Sambandhar visited Tiruvottur. One man came to Sambandhar and said: “O
Swami, all the palmyra seeds have become male palmyras. People are mocking at me. Kindly bless
me”. Sambandhar sang a Padigam. The male palmyras were converted into female palmyras.
In Mylapore, there lived a devotee of Siva named Sivanesa Chettiar. A daughter was born to
him after doing penance. He gave her the name Poompavai. Sivanesar heard about the glory of
Sambandhar and surrendered all his wealth and daughter to the saint. One day, Poompavai was
bitten by a cobra, while she was gathering flowers in the garden. She died immediately. Sivanesar
kept her bones in a pot and kept the pot in the Kannikaimatam. He decorated the pot with silk cloth.
Sivanesar invited Sambandhar to the place. Sambandhar came to Mylapore and had Darsana of
Kapalisvarar. The devotees informed Sambandhar about the death of Sivanesar’s daughter.
Sambandhar asked Sivanesar to bring the pot which contained the bones of his daughter. Sivanesar
brought the pot at once. Sambandhar sang a Padigam. Poompavai came out of the pot just as
Lakshmi emerged from the lotus. Sivanesar’s heart was filled with intense delight. There was a rain
of flowers from the celestial regions. Then Sambandhar went to Sirkali.
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THE SAIVA ACHARYAS
The Brahmins approached Sambandhar and said: “O Swami, you will have to marry a girl
now in order to perform the sacrifices mentioned in the Vedas”. Sambandhar agreed. The Brahmins
and the father of Sambandhar selected the daughter of Nambiandar Nambi as the bride. The
marriage ceremony was arranged at Nallur Perumanam. Sambandhar went along with his chosen
bride into the temple. When he approached the Lord, he, his bride and his followers got merged in
the Jyotis or the effulgence of the Lord.
Sambandhar says in one of his Padigams: “O foolish man, do not allow days to pass. Serve
Lord Siva who has a blue neck. Hear His praise. Meditate on His form. Repeat always the
Panchakshara. Live in the company of devotees of Siva. Serve them. His name will remove all evils
and dangers likely to fall on you and your children. Worship Lord Siva. He will confer on you
eternal bliss and immortality”.
Sundaramurthy
There was a Brahmin by name Sadayanar in Navalur in Tamilnadu. He was very pious and
devoted to Lord Siva. He had a pious son named Nambiyarurar or Alala Sundarar. He attained
manhood. He was known by the name Sundaramurti Nayanar also.
Sundaramurti Nayanar was a great devotee of Lord Siva. He is one of the four Saiva
Acharyas. Lord Siva of Tiruvennainallur appeared before Sundaramurti in the form of an aged
Brahmin on the eve of his marriage. The Lord said that Sundarar was His bond slave and so ought to
work for Him in His house. The name of the Lord is Taduttatkonda Isvar or the Lord who obstructed
and saved Sundarar from Samsara.
Sundaramurti visited several temples. He went to Adigai Virattanam. Lord Siva appeared
before him and placed His sacred feet on his head. Sundarar then went to Tiruvarur. Lord Siva made
Sundarar His friend.
Kamalini was the maid servant of Umadevi at Kailas. She entertained a desire to marry
Alala Sundarar. So she was forced to take birth in the world at Tiruvarur. She was named as Paravai.
She came of age. Lord Siva of Tiruvarur appeared in the dream of the devotees and told them:
“Arrange for the marriage of Paravai and Sundaramurti”. Lord Siva informed Paravai and Sundarar
also. Sundarar married Paravai and both lived happily.
There was a famine in Tiruvarur. Lord Siva appeared before Sundaramurti and gave him
heaps of grain. It was impossible to remove this large quantity of grain. Sundaramurti asked Lord
Siva to help him. The grain was removed to the house of Paravai by the Ganas, the agents of Lord
Siva.
When Sundarar was at Tiruppugalur he asked for gold for his wife. He kept his head on
bricks and slept. He woke up and found the bricks converted into gold. He got again gold on his way
to Vriddhachalam. He threw the gold in the river Manimukta according to the Lord’s command. He
took it again in the tank at Tiruvarur. Lord Siva showed him the way to Tirukkudalaiyarru r.
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Lord Siva gave Sundarar food when he was going to Tirukkarukavur. On another occasion
Lord Siva begged food for Sundarar.
Sundaramurti went to Tiruvottiyur. He married Sangili, a great devotee of Lord Siva

through the grace of Lord Siva. Aninditai, maid servant of Umadevi who lived in Kailas, took her
birth as Sangili.
Sundaramurti requested Lord Siva to stay under the Magila tree when he was to swear to
Sangili that he would not leave her. Sundarar wanted Sangili to go inside the temple, but Lord Siva
already informed Sangili that He was under the tree and not inside the temple. Thereupon, Sangili
asked Sundaramurti to come to the tree and not inside the temple, to take the oath. Sundaramurti had
to give consent to Sangili’s request. Later on, he broke the oath by going to Tiruvarur to see the
Utsava leaving Sangili, and became blind.
Sundaramurti said to the Lord: “If it is just that You should make me blind, kindly give me a
stick”. Lord Siva gave a stick at Tiruvenpakkam. Sundarar’s left eye became all right when he came
to Kanjivaram. When he praised Lord Siva at Tiruvarur his right eye also became all right. When
Sundaramurti was passing through a street in Tiruppukoliyur he saw that some people were crying
in a house and some people were rejoicing at the opposite house. He asked the people: “What was
the matter in both the houses?” They said: “Two boys aged five took bath in a tank. One boy was
devoured by a crocodile and the other boy escaped. The parents of the boy who was killed by the
crocodile are bitterly weeping. The parents of the boy who escaped, are celebrating his
thread-ceremony and so they are rejoicing.”
Sundarar was greatly moved. He sang a Padigam in praise of Lord Siva-Avinasi. The
crocodile brought the child to the shore through the order of Lord Yama. The parents of the boy
greatly rejoiced and prostrated before Sundarar.
During the pilgrimage tour, Sundarar came to the bank of Kaveri. There was flood in the
river. He wanted to have Darsana of Lord Siva at Tiruvayur. He sang a Padigam. The river gave way
to Sundarar. He reached Tiruvayur and worshipped the Lord.
There was a great devotee of Lord Siva in Tiruperumangalam named Kalikamar. He was a
Pillai by birth. He heard the news that Sundarar sent Lord Siva as a messenger to Paravai, and said:
“A devotee has ordered the Lord to do some work. He has made the Lord his servant. That too for
the sake of a woman. Is this man who has behaved like this, a devotee? I am a great sinner. My life
has not yet departed from me as I have heard such news. I have not destroyed my ears, with an iron
rod, which heard such news of a so-called devotee”.
Sundarar came to know of the condition of Kalikamar Nayanar. He knew already that what
he did was a grave error. He prayed to the Lord to pardon him. Lord Siva wanted to unite these two
devotees. He caused the disease gastritis in Kalikamar, appeared in his dream and said: “This
disease can be cured only by Sundarar”. Kalikamar reflected: “It is better to bear the pains of this
disease, than to be cured by Sundarar”. The Lord commanded Sundarar: “Go and cure the disease of
Kalikamar”.
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Sundarar sent a message to Kalikamar about his coming to him. Kalikamar thought: “Let
me give up my life before Sundarar comes to cure me.” He cut open his bowels and gave up his life.
The wife of Kalikamar received Sundarar with great honour.
Sundarar said to the wife of Kalikamar: “I wish to cure the disease of your husband and live
with him for some time”. She kept quiet and asked those who were around her to tell Sundarar that
her husband was not suffering from any disease and he was sleeping. Sundarar informed the people
that he had a strong desire to see Kalikamar. Then they showed Kalikamar. Sundarar saw the dead
body of Kalikamar. He also drew the sword and wanted to kill himself. Kalikamar came back to life
through the grace of Lord Siva. He at once caught hold of the hands of Sundarar. Sundarar fell at the
feet of Kalikamar. Kalikamar also prostrated at the lotus-feet of Sundarar. They both embraced
each other. They both went to the temple of Lord Siva and worshipped Him. Thereupon, they
proceeded to Tiruvarur.
Paravai was very much annoyed towards Sundarar for having left her and married Sangili.
Sundarar requested Lord Siva to pacify Paravai. Lord Siva went twice to the house of Paravai,
pacified her and united them both. The Lord acted the part of a messenger for His devotee. The Lord
becomes a perfect slave of His sincere devotees.
Sundaramurti became quite disgusted with this worldly existence. He requested Lord Siva
to take him back to Kailas. Then Lord Siva sent him a white elephant.
Sundaramurti sang the glories of Siva in different sacred places. These hymns are called
Tevaram. They are collected in a book-form. All devotees sing Tevaram even today. The hymns
sung by Sundaramurti, Appar or Tirunavukarasar and Tirujnana Sambandhar are called Tevaram.
The hymns sung by Manickavasagar are called Tiruvasagam.
Sundaramurti had the Sakhya Bhava with Lord Siva. Therefore, he was quite friendly with
the Lord, took any kind of liberty with Him and asked for gold, pearl garland, musk, a garland of
precious stones, spectacles, clothes, fragrance, jewels, horses which can go with the swiftness of the
wind, golden flowers, palanquins, one-third of the riches of Tiruvarur. He did not ask for these
things on account of desire for enjoyment. He had no selfish desires. He did not keep them. He
utilised them for those who depended on him.
Sundaramurti showed to the world the path of Sakhya Marga or Sakhya Bhava in Bhakti.
Manickavasagar
Manickavasagar was a Brahmin by birth. He took his birth in Tiruvadavur seven miles from
Madurai on the banks of Vaigai river. He must have lived between 650 and 692 A.D. Some say that
he flourished in the tenth or eleventh century. He secured the friendship of the king of Madurai,
Arimardana Pandyan, and became his chief minister. He was also known by the name Vadavurar.
The Pandya king sent Manickavasagar with a lot of money to purchase horses for the State.
Manickavasagar started on his journey. On his way, he heard the Kirtan of Siva in a garden in
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Tiruperundurai. Lord Siva assumed the form of a Siva Yogi and seated Himself, underneath a tree
with His Siva Ganas as disciples. He came here to initiate Manickavasagar in Siva Jnana.
Manickavasagar fell at the feet of the Lord and surrendered himself. Lord Siva initiated
Manickavasagar into the mysteries of Siva Jnana. Manickavasagar spent away all the money he had
brought, in the construction of temples and feeding Siva Bhaktas. He renounced everything, wore a
Kowpin and became a Sannyasin. The matter was reported to the king.
The Raja sent a letter to Manickavasagar and ordered him to see him at once.
Manickavasagar did not pay any attention. Lord Siva said to Manickavasagar: “I will bring the
horses on Avani Mulam. You go in advance. Give this diamond to the Raja”. Manickavasagar
proceeded to Madurai, gave the diamond to the Raja and said: “The horses will come here on Avani
Mulam”. The Raja became impatient. He did not get any information about the horses two days
before Avani Mulam. He thought that Manickavasagar had cheated him. Therefore, he put
Manickavasagar in jail and tormented him severely.
The horses came in the morning of Avani Mulam. Lord Siva assumed the form of a groom.
How merciful is the Lord towards His devotees! The Raja was highly pleased. He released
Manickavasagar from jail and made an apology to him. Through the Lila of the Lord, jackals came
in the form of horses. All the horses were turned into jackals. The Raja became terribly angry. He
again tortured Manickavasagar. He made him stand in the hot sand-bed of Vaigai river at 12 noon.
At once the Lord caused flood in the river to cool His devotee. The whole town was inundated.
The ministers told the Raja that this calamity had happened on account of his ill-treatment
of the great Mahatma. The Raja at once released Manickavasagar. He prostrated before him and
requested him to stop the flood. As soon as Manickavasagar marched on the bank, the flood
subsided. The Raja ordered all the subjects to put one basketful of mud on the bank of the river. All
the breaches were made all right except that portion of the breach given to an old woman Vandi. She
was in distress. Lord Siva Himself out of compassion appeared as a cooly before that old woman
and offered His services to her in return for a handful of rice-flour. He was simply playing. He kept
the mud in His hands. The Raja came to know that the cooly of Vandi did not do any work. He
became very angry and beat the cooly with a stick. The blow was felt by the Raja and everyone in
the town. The cooly vanished. The Raja came to know that this was the Lila of the Lord Siva. He
recognised the glory of Manickavasagar also.
Thereupon Manickavasagar met Lord Siva. The Lord ordered him to visit all places of
pilgrimage and then go to Chidambaram. Manickavasagar visited Tiruvannamalai, Kanjivaram and
other places, sang his Tiruvasagam and lastly went to Chidambaram. Tirukoovai was written by
him here.
Then Manickavasagar entered into discussion with a Buddhist teacher and defeated him.
Goddess Sarasvati made the Buddhist teacher and his disciples dumb. Then the Buddhistic king
approached Manickavasagar and said: “You made my teacher and all his disciples dumb. If you can
make my dumb daughter speak, I and my subjects will embrace Saivism”. Manickavasagar then put
some questions to the dumb daughter of the king. She began to speak. Then the Buddhistic king and
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THE SAIVA ACHARYAS
all his subjects became Saivites. Manickavasagar then made the Buddhistic teacher and his
disciples speak.
Then Lord Siva approached Manickavasagar in the form of a Brahmin. Manickavasagar

repeated the whole Tiruvasagam to the Brahmin. The Brahmin wrote down everything on the
palmyra leaves and wrote in the end: “Manickavasagar repeated this, Tiruchittambala Udayar
wrote this”. The Brahmin kept this in the step of Panchakshara of the Chitsabhai. Then the
Brahmins of Chidambaram showed this to Manickavasagar and requested him to tell the meaning
of the verses. Manickavasagar said: “This Tillai Nataraja is the purport of these stanzas”. He at once
merged himself in the feet of Nataraja at the age of thirtytwo.
The poems of Manickavasagar are fiftytwo in number. They are all collected together under
the title of Tiruvasagam. They are most beautiful, sublime and inspiring. They contain ornamental
poetry. South Indians sing Tiruvasagam daily. The hearts of those who hear these hymns melt at
once.
Dear readers! You can understand from the life of Manickavasagar, that Lord Siva becomes
the slave of His devotees.
Tirumular
Tirumula Nayanar was the author of Tirumandiram, one of the most authoritative works
embodying the Siva doctrine.
He was a great Siva Yogi who had obtained the grace of Nandi, the door-keeper of Lord
Siva. He came to South India from Kailas. He had a desire to see Agastya Rishi on Podiya hills in
South India. He went to Kedarnath, Nepal, Avimuktam, the Vindhyas, Kasi, Kalahasti,
Tiruvalangadu, Kanjivaram, Tiruvadigai, Chidambaram and Perumbarrappuliyur. Then he came to
Avaduturai and worshipped the Lord there.
He left this place and was moving on the banks of Kaveri. Here, some cows were crying on
account of the death of cowherd Mula who lived in Sattanur. The Siva Yogi became very
compassionate when he saw the condition of the cows. He entered into the body of the cowherd and
drove the cows homeward. When he reached the cowherd’s house, the wife of Mula approached
him, but he would not permit her to touch him. He did not even talk to her. She was much afflicted at
heart and spent a sleepless night. Then those who saw him said that he was a great Yogi. The Siva
Yogi who entered the body of Mula sat in meditation and entered into Samadhi. He came down
from his Samadhi and proceeded to enter into his old body. He did not find the body in the place.
Through his Yogic vision, he found out that Lord Siva wanted that he should write a book on Saiva
philosophy which would be useful to the people of South India and He hid his body for this purpose.
Then he went to Avaduturai, meditated upon the Lord and wrote out the doctrine of Saiva
philosophy in three thousand stanzas at the rate of one stanza in one year. He rendered into Tamil
the Saiva doctrine of the Sanskrit Saiva Agamas. His work became the foundation upon which the
later structure of Saiva Siddhanta philosophy was built. After finishing this great work, he went
back to Kailas or the world of Lord Siva.
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Tirumular gives a description of the fruits that can be obtained by the practice of the eight
limbs of Raja Yoga. The Yogi obtains the blessing of Uma and attains Amarapati by the practice of
Yama (self-restraint). He attains Sivapadam by the practice of Niyama (religious canons). He hears
Nadam by the practice of Asana (pose). He attains a stage by the practice of Pranayama (restraint of
breath) in which all the gods eulogise him. He attains the form of Siva by the practice of Pratyahara
(abstraction of senses) and the gods become confused as they cannot differentiate him from Siva.
He can go anywhere including the worlds of Brahma and Vishnu by the practice of Dharana
(concentration). He can walk into any place just as one can walk on earth. He attains the abode of
Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra and Indra by the practice of Dhyana (meditation). He frees himself from all
the Upadhis or fetters and unites with Lord Siva (Tat Padam) by the practice of Samadhi
(superconscious state).
Basavanna
Basavanna was the great Vira Saiva socio-religious teacher. He was also known by the
names Basavaraja, Basavesvara. He was a deep thinker. He brought about vital changes in social
adjustment and thought.
He was the Saivite reformer of the Karnataka state. He gave the present form to the cult
known as Sivachara.
He flourished in the twelfth century. He was born in a Brahmin family. He left the practices
of his own community as they were too ritualistic and formal. He joined the Vira Salve cult which
was very prevalent at that time.
He was the Chief Minister in the court of king Bijjala in Kalyan. He was a very popular
minister. He was very kind, noble, modest, very lovable and courageous. He had intense reliance on
God. People deified him and worshipped him. He would freely mix with common people. He
redressed their grievances. He was in close intimacy with them. He worked very hard for the
dissemination of his faith. He created many enemies on account of this active propaganda. There
was civil disturbance in the country. Bijjala met his end in this disturbance, Basavanna’s life too
ended in this period of agitation, although it is difficult to find out how he exactly met his end.
He was a reformer. He became the leader of the Vira Saiva movement. He established a cult
that is accepted today by many people. It developed a school of poor priests. It abolished the old
priestly class. It adopted the vernacular as the medium for inculcating the supreme truth into the
people. It gave to women an important place in religious and social life. It prescribed one ideal of
realisation for every individual, high or low.
Basavanna made great sacrifice for Truth. People accepted him as a teacher. His sayings
have come straight from his heart. They go straight to the heart. They are simple, direct, powerful.
His rules of conduct are lofty and admirable. He was a sincere seeker after Truth and could make
great sacrifices for attaining the Truth. He was all love and kindness. Love for all life or universal
love was the central teaching of Basavanna.
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THE SAIVA ACHARYAS
Chapter XII
SIVA BHAKTAS
Saints and Sages
Who is saint? He who lives in God the or the Eternal, who is free from egoism, likes and
dislikes, selfishness, vanity, mine-ness, lust, greed and anger, who is endowed with equal vision,
balanced mind, mercy, tolerance, righteousness, cosmic love and who has divine knowledge is a
saint. Saints and sages are blessings to the world at large. They are the custodians of superior divine
wisdom, spiritual powers and inexhaustible spiritual wealth. Even kings bow their heads at their
lotus-feet. King Janaka said to Yajnavalkya: “O venerable sage, I am grateful to your exalted
Holiness for obtaining the ancient wisdom of the Upanishads through your lofty and sublime
instructions. I offer my whole kingdom at thy feet. Further I am thy servant. I will wait on thee like a
servant”. Such is the magnanimous nature of saints and sages. Their very existence inspires others
and goads them to become like them and attain the same state of bliss as achieved by them. Had it
not been for their existence, there would not have been spiritual uplift and salvation for you all.
Their glory is indescribable. Their wisdom is unfathomable. They are deep like the ocean, steady
like the Himalayas, pure like the Himalayan snow, effulgent like the sun. One crosses this terrible
ocean of Samsara or births and deaths, through their grace and Satsanga or association with them.
To be in their company is highest education. To love them is highest happiness. To be near them is
real education.
They wander from village to village and disseminate divine knowledge. They move from
door to door and impart wisdom. They take a little for their bare maintenance and give the highest
education, culture and enlightenment to the people. Their very life is exemplary. Whether they
deliver lectures or not, whether they hold discourses or not, it matters little.
Saints and sages only can become real advisers of kings because they are selfless and
possess highest wisdom. They only can improve the morality of the masses. They only can show the
way to attain eternal bliss and immortality. Sivaji had Swami Ramadas as his adviser. King
Dasaratha had Maharshi Vasishtha as his adviser.
Study the lives of saints, you are inspired at once. Remember their sayings, you are elevated
immediately. Walk in their footsteps, you are freed from pain and sorrow. Therefore, the book
‘Lives of Saints’ must be your constant companion. It must be in your pocket. It must be underneath
your pillow.
Do not superimpose defects on them on account of your Dosha-drishti or evil-eye. You

cannot judge their merits. Be humble and sit at their feet. Serve them with your heart and soul, and
clear your doubts. Get instructions and practise them in right earnest. You will certainly be blessed.
Every school, every college, every boarding house, every jail, every institution, every
house, should have a saint for their guidance. Saints are in abundance. You do not want them. You
do not wish to approach them. You do not wish to serve them. You do not aspire for higher things.
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You are perfectly satisfied with some broken shells and glass-pieces. There is no thirst or spiritual
hunger in you for achieving higher, divine knowledge and inner Peace.
There is no caste among saints and sages, Do not look to their caste. You will not be
benefited. You cannot imbibe their virtues. In higher religion, there is neither caste nor creed.
Cobblers, weavers and untouchables had become the best saints. Wisdom and Self-realisation are
not the monopoly of Brahmins alone. South Indian Brahmins pay respects and give food only to the
Brahmin Dandi Sannyasins. This is a serious mistake and grave blunder. What a sad state! That is
the reason why saints do not visit South India. Punjab, Sindh and Gujarat have devotion to all saints.
Hence, they move in these parts and people derive much spiritual benefit from them.
May this world be filled with good saints and sages! May you all attain the supreme goal
through their Satsanga and advice! May the blessings of saints and sages be upon you all!
Markandeya
Markandeya was a great devotee of Lord Siva. His father Mrikandu performed rigorous
austerities to get a son. Lord Siva appeared before him and said: “O Rishi, do you want a good son
who will die in his sixteenth year or a bad and foolish son who will live for a long time?” Mrikandu
replied: “O my venerable Lord, let me have a good son”.
The boy came to know about his fate and began to worship Lord Siva whole-heartedly with
intense faith and devotion. The boy entered into deep meditation and Samadhi on the day decreed as
the day of his death. The messengers of Lord Yama were not able to approach him. Hence, Yama
himself went to take away his life. The boy prayed to Lord Siva for protection and embraced the
Linga. Then Yama threw his noose round the Linga and the boy. Lord Siva came out of the Linga
immediately and killed Yama to protect the boy. Lord Siva was called Mrityunjaya and Kala-kala
from that day.
Then the Devas approached Lord Siva and said: “O adorable Lord, salutations unto Thee.
Pardon Yama for his mistake. O ocean of mercy, bring him back to life”. Then Lord Siva brought
Yama back to life at the request of the gods. He also conferred a boon to the boy Markandeya that he
should live for ever as a boy of sixteen years of age. He is a Chiranjivi. In South India, even now
men and women bless a boy when he does prostration to them: “Live as a Chiranjivi like
Markandeya”.
Through Tapas and meditation you can achieve anything in the three worlds.
The Story of Rishabha Yogi
This story is related in seven chapters in the Brahmottara Kanda of Skanda Purana.
Mandara, a Brahmin of Avanti was a man of great erudition. But he lived with a prostitute
named Pingala. Rishabha, a great Siva Yogi, was the guest of Mandara one day. Both Mandara and
Pingala served the Yogi with intense faith and devotion and obtained his grace.
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SIVA BHAKTAS
After some time both of them died. Mandara was born as the son of Vajrabahu, the king of
Dasarna. When he was in the womb of his mother Sumati, the other wives of the king gave poison to
Sumati on account of jealousy. Both the child and Sumati became very sick. They could not be
cured of their illness. They were abandoned in the forest by the order of the king.
They were taken by a rich merchant through the grace of the Lord and were protected by
him nicely. The child grew worse day by day and died. The mother was wailing bitterly over the
death of her son. Now Rishabha appeared on the scene, consoled the mother and imparted her
philosophical instructions. But she could not be consoled. Then the Yogi touched the dead child
with the Bhasma of Siva. The child came back to life. He made the mother and son quite healthy and
beautiful through his Yogic powers. He gave the name Bhadrayu to the boy and taught him the Siva
Kavacha. He gave him a sword, a conch and the strength of ten thousand elephants. He gave him
also the Bhasma of Siva. Then the Yogi left the place.
Bhadrayu and Sunaya, the son of the merchant, lived together happily. Bhadrayu heard that
his father had been deposed and imprisoned by Hemaratha, the king of Magadha. He went with
Sunaya, defeated the enemies and freed his father, all the ministers and the queens who had been
imprisoned by the king of Magadha. He left the king of Magadha and his retinue as prisoners in the
possession of his father and returned home. He did not reveal his identity to his father. The father
admired the valour of the boy and expressed his keen sense of indebtedness to the boy. Thus
Rishabha, the great Siva Yogi showed his grace to Bhadrayu who as Mandara, had once served him
with faith and devotion despite his loose living.
Chitravarma, the king of Aryavarta had a daughter by name Simantini. Chandrangada, the
son of Indrasena, the son of Nala and Damayanti of Nishadha, married Simantini. Chandrangada
was drowned in Jamuna soon after marriage, while he was sporting in a boat. The Naga girls took
Chandrangada to Takshaka, their chief in Nagaloka.
Simantini learnt from an astrologer of the court that she would become a widow in her
fourteenth year. Therefore, she got initiation into the worship of Lord Siva on Mondays and at
Pradosha, from Maitreyi, wife of the sage Yajnavalkya. She continued the worship even after she
became a widow.
Takshaka sent Chandrangada back to the banks of Jamuna as he wished that he should live
with his wife. One evening on Monday, when Simantini went to the river for taking a bath, she met
her husband.
Chandrangada defeated the enemy king who had deposed his father in his absence and
replaced his father on the throne. Simantini and Chandrangada were reunited by the grace of Lord
Siva.
Simantini used to adore and give presents to Brahmins and their wives every Monday in
honour of Lord Siva and Parvati. Two Brahmin boys approached the king of Vidarbha for getting
money for their marriage. The king asked the boys to be dressed as man and wife and go to
Simantini. He did this in order to test the devotion of Simantini. The boys acted accordingly.
Simantini laughed and adored them as Lord Siva and Parvati. One of the boys become a woman.
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The father of the boy who had become a woman by the power of Simantini requested the king to
help him out of the trouble. The king prayed to Parvati. Parvati refused to interfere with the act of
Her devotee, but promised a son to the father of the boy. The two boys had to marry and live as
husband and wife.
Simantini had a daughter by name Kirtimalini. This Kirtimalini was really the prostitute
Pingala who had obtained the grace of Rishabha, the Siva Yogi, by serving him with great devotion.
Rishabha went to Chandrangada and asked him to marry Kirtimalini to Bhadrayu. The Siva Yogi
related the whole story of Bhadrayu to Chandrangada. Chandrangada gave his daughter Kirtimalini
to Bhadrayu in marriage. He invited the father of Bhadrayu to the marriage. When Vajrabahu saw
the son-in-law of Chandrangada, he found him to be the very boy who had defeated the king of
Magadha and given him his kingdom. The story of the mother and son, Sumati and Bhadrayu, was
related to Vajrabahu. Vajrabahu took his queen and son with the daughter-in-law to his kingdom.
The great Siva Yogi Rishabha, reunited his devoted worshippers Mandara and Pingala.
Though they led a loose life they were saved and made happy through the grace of the Siva Yogi,
Rishabha. One day Bhadrayu went to the forest. He heard the cry of a Brahmin’s wife, who was
being carried away by a tiger. The king tried his level best to save the woman but could not kill the
tiger. The Brahmin abused the king and said: “O timid king, you have no valour to kill the tiger.
What sort of king you are!” Bhadrayu promised to give anything including his wife to the Brahmin.
The Brahmin demanded the queen. Bhadrayu gave his queen to the Brahmin and prepared himself
to enter the fire and lose his life which was not worth living thereafter.
Then, Lord Siva and Parvati appeared before the king who was a great Siva-Bhakta and
said: “We have done this to test your strength and Dharma”. Thereupon, Lord Siva gave Siva
Sayujya to Bhadrayu, Kirtimalini, their parents, the Vaisya and his son, according to the request of
Bhadrayu and his wife. The Brahmin’s wife was once again brought to life and they both received
the blessing of Lord Siva.
The story clearly reveals the glory of Siva Bhakti, the greatness of Siva Bhaktas, the
importance of Siva Puja on all days, particularly on Mondays and in Pradosha, the hour just at
sunset.
Pushpadanta
Pushpadanta was a great devotee of Lord Siva. He was the chief of the Gandharvas. His
teeth were like the petals of the jasmine flower. Hence he was called by the name Pushpadanta,
‘flowery toothed’.
Pushpadanta had the power of moving in the air. He used to collect flowers from the garden
of king Vahu at Banares, in order to worship Lord Siva. As he had the power of moving in the air,
the gardeners were not able to detect him. The gardeners suspected that some mysterious being with
some supernatural powers, was stealthily plucking the flowers of the garden. They made a device to
catch him.
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They scattered some flowers which had been offered to Lord Siva in different places in the
garden. They thought that the mysterious being would tread on the flowers.
As usual Pushpadanta visited the garden to pluck flowers. He walked on the flowers which
were scattered on the ground. He unconsciously insulted Lord Siva and lost his power of moving in
the air. He was caught by the gardeners and brought before the king.
Pushpadanta recited a hymn to Lord Siva to propitiate Him and free himself from the fear of
the king whom he had offended by the theft of the flowers. He again obtained the power to move in
the air through the grace of Lord Siva.
This celebrated hymn is known by the name ‘Mahimnastava’. It is full of sublime,

soul-elevating thoughts. It is sung daily in the Siva temples of Northern India, during evening
prayers and Arati. This hymn touches the heart of all. It is sonorous, rhythmical and musical and full
of profound devotion. You should get this by heart and repeat it daily. You will attain supreme,
immortal, blissful abode of Lord Siva.
Kannappa Nayanar
Tinnanar, known as Kannappar, was born of Nagan, the king of the Vyadhas (hunters), in
Uduppur, in South India. King Nagan was a great Bhakta of Lord Subrahmanya. From his boyhood,
Tinnanar was well trained in the skill of a hunter and archery and in his prime age, he had to assume
the reins of government which his old father bestowed on him. One day, Tinnanar went out for a
hunt with some of his followers. While wandering in the forest they came across a hog, escaping
from a net. They, at once chased the hog for a long time, up and down the hills. After a long time,
Tinnanar killed the hog and as they were much tired due to the long chasing, they at once arranged
to cook the flesh of the animal and it was removed to another place in the Kalahasti Hill which was
nearby. While walking towards the hill one of the followers of Tinnanar suggested to him to pay a
visit to Kudumi Thevar, the presiding deity of the hills, and they proceeded to have Darsana of the
Lord on the hill.
While climbing up the hill Tinnanar felt as if some great burden which was on him uptill
now, was gradually diminishing and he decided now to go to the temple nearby, have Darsana of the
Lord there and then to take their meals. As soon as he came near the temple, to his great joy he saw a
Siva Linga. At the very sight of Isvara, he was transformed to an embodiment of love and devotion
and extreme joy. Like a mother who met her child that was missing for long, Tinnanar was merged
in deep feeling of divine ecstasy and Prem. Ha! What a boundless and inexpressible and illimitable
joy and exhilaration he had at the very sight of Lord Siva! He began to cry, weep and shed tears of
joy and love towards the Lord. He forgot everything about his meals and his followers and even his
own body.
He felt very much for the loneliness of the Lord on the hills without being protected against
the animals and others that might do harm to Him, and he decided to keep watch over the temple
throughout the night against any danger from animals or evil-doers. On seeing that the Lord was
hungry, he at once ran out to prepare meals for the Lord out of the meat he had got by killing the
hog. He carefully took the flesh, tasted it and thus selected the pieces which were palatable and
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roasted them. The remaining portion he threw away as bad. Then he proceeded towards the river to
fetch water for the Abhisheka and. he got the water in his mouth. On the way, he plucked some
flowers and kept them in the locks of his hair. With these preparations he entered the temple,
removed the old flowers that were lying on the Lord by shoe, did Abhisheka with the water in his
mouth and decorated Him with the flowers he had on his locks of hair. Then he offered the Prasad of
meat to the Lord. Finishing all these, with bow and arrow in his hand he kept a keen watch over the
temple by standing in front of the temple throughout the night. Early in the morning, he went out for
hunt to bring Prasad for the Lord.
When Tinnanar left for hunting, the temple priest, Sivakasariar, an earnest and sincere
devotee of Lord Sankara, came to the temple and to his great surprise and disappointment, saw
bones and flesh all round the Lord and the decorations have been spoiled. But he could not identify
the man who has done such an act, and meddled with the sanctity of the place. So uttering the
necessary Mantras, he cleaned the place and performed his usual Puja for the Lord and recited the
prayers. After the Puja he closed the temple and went out.
Tinnanar now returned with the Prasad of meat and flesh and as before, he removed the old
decorations done by the priest, decorated in his own way as usual, and offered Prasad. At night, he
kept vigil and keen watch over the temple. Early in the morning, he went out to bring Prasad. Thus
he was with the Lord serving Him for five days and in spite of the entreaties of his parents to come
home, he persisted in remaining with the Lord and Lord alone.
Sivakasariar, who was vexed with the incident being repeated day by day, complained to the
Lord and requested Him to put an end to these mishappenings. Lord Siva appeared in the priest’s
dream and narrated to him what was happening in the temple during the absence of the priest and
told him also that what all actions Tinnanar was doing was only out of pure, unsophisticated love
that he bore towards the Lord. Further, the Lord said: “I welcome, and rather I am immensely
pleased with the mouthful of water by which he is doing my Abhisheka. This has greater value to
Me than by the Tirthas of the Ganga. Whatever action that is performed out of pure and deep love
and faith, I merit it with greater value than those rituals and austerities done by the Vedic
injunctions”. Then Lord Gangadhar asked the priest to come to the temple next day and hide
himself behind the Mufti and witness what Tinnanar does.
Tinnanar, after bringing the Prasad, arranged in his own usual way for the Abhisheka and
decoration of the Lord. Now Lord Siva willed that the priest, Sivakasariar should see and feel the
degree of devotion and faith that Tinnanar was having for Him. So, while Tinnanar was doing the
Puja and offering the Prasad of meat, to his great astonishment, he saw the Lord shedding tears of
blood, in the right eye. He got perplexed and was at a loss to know what to do. He ran hither and
thither to bring some leaves for stopping the bleeding but found they were of no use. He wept
bitterly, cursed himself for being unable to stop the bleeding from the eye. At last, a plan came to
him. He at once plucked out his right eye with his arrow and fixed it on the right eye of the Lord. To
his great joy and ecstasy, he saw the bleeding stopped. While he was dancing in divine ecstasy for
having cured the bleeding, all on a sudden, he perceived that the left eye also was bleeding. Though
he was overtaken by surprise and sorrow, the previous plan came to him and he decided to pierce his
left eye with his arrow with the intention of plucking it out and fixing it on the left eye of the Lord.
But when his both eyes were gone, how could he see the bleeding on the left eye of the Lord so as to
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SIVA BHAKTAS
stop it by fixing his own eye? Hence, in order to identify the left eye of the Lord, he first fixed it up
with the shoe on his right foot, and began to pierce his own left eye with the arrow in his hand. But
Isvara will not be so cruel as to see His Bhaktas suffer so much. On the spot, the Lord appeared and
addressed Tinnanar as ‘Kannappa’ and stopped him from plucking out the left eye. He was much
pleased with the filial devotion and staunch faith that Kannappar had for Him and kept him by His
right side.
The above story of Kannappar is illustrative of the highest degree of devotion and faith that
was evinced by the Bhakta towards Lord Siva, even though he was a hunter by caste and never
cared for the rituals and austerities by which the Lord should be worshipped. It was only mere love
and intense devotion to the Lord that bestowed on him the greatest boon from the Lord, i.e.,
Self-realisation. It is only a matter of six days that he performed the Puja ceremonies to the Lord in
his own way, but the amount of devotion and love he had to the Lord, was boundless.
May the blessings of Kannappar be upon you all! May you all attain the highest goal of
human life by following the example of Kannappa Nayanar, the great South Indian Bhakta of Lord
Siva!
Sirutonda Nayanar
Paranjotiar of Tiruchettangudi was general under the Chola king. He was skilful in all the
methods of warfare and had won many a war for the Chola king. In spite of the fact of his being a
general, his devotion to Lord Siva and Siva Bhaktas was increasing. As a Bhakta of Lord Siva, he
was noted for his humility and he was aptly named Sirutonda Nayanar. He left his post of general
and spent his lifetime in worshipping Lord Siva and serving and feeding Siva Bhaktas. Never a day
was known when he took food without feeding Siva Bhaktas. Such was the intensity of his
devotion. In this way, he was happily living with his wife and a son, Seeralan by name.
Once, it happened that Lord Siva in the guise of Vairavar came to his doors for Bhiksha. Just
at that moment, Sirutondar had gone out to get some Siva Bhaktas for feeding. Vairavar waited for a
while and there came Sirutondar returning from his quest of Sadhus, quite disappointed as he found
none to feed with. To his great joy Vairavar was waiting at his doors. Now Vairavar, expressing his
wish to dine in his house, informed him that he would do so provided Sirutondar complied with his
wishes. On getting his consent, Vairavar told him that he required the cooked flesh of a boy of 5
years old with robust health and without any deformities of mind and body. Though at first the
Bhakta was bewildered in getting the thing required, at last happily decided to offer their own son,
Seeralan, for the feast of Vairavar.
Both the wife and husband hurried up in preparing the required meals, the mother keeping
her son on the lap and the father cutting the throat, and every limb was cooked except the head. Even
this part was nicely prepared after getting the consent of Vairavar. When everything was prepared,
Sirutondar and Vairavar began to take their meals. But at the moment Vairavar stopped and refused
to take food unless Sirutondar got his son by his side for eating. Though Sirutondar told Vairavar
that his son would not serve the purpose at that hour, still Vairavar insisted. Sirutondar got up and
with increased devotion and staunch faith in Him, went outside his house and called out the name of
his son, Seeralan, as if his son was coming from school. But to his astonishment, his son responded
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to his call and was coming down the other end of the street as if from school. With his son, he
entered the house. But now, neither the cooked flesh not Vairavar were to be seen. What a dismay?
Instead, Lord Mahadev appeared on the scene with His consort Parvati and Lord Subrahmanya by
His side, blessed both the husband and wife for their intense love towards Him, and took Sirutondar
and his family along with Him. Such was the reward for the Bhakta who offered his son’s flesh for
the feeding of the Sadhu.
May you all develop intense love and faith to the Lord! May the blessings of Sirutondar be
upon us all!
Lord Siva’s Mother
In ancient days, there lived a rich merchant named Dhanadatta in Karikal in South India. He
had no child. He worshipped Lord Siva. He had a daughter through the grace of the Lord. The child
was called by the name Punitavati. Punitavati came to be later on called by the name Karikal
Ammaiar also. She is counted as one amongst Nayanars (the famous Siva Bhaktas of South India).
Punitavati was very intelligent, beautiful, pious. She chanted the names and praise of Lord
Siva. She applied holy ash to her forehead.
She married Paramadatta, the son of a rich merchant at Nagapattam. Paramadatta also was
beautiful and intelligent. He possessed good character. He lived in his father-in-law’s place with the
permission of his father.
Punitavati used to feed with intense devotion and joy, the Bhaktas day and night and hear
them singing the names of Lord Siva. She always remembered the utterance of the Vedas: “Let the
guest be a God unto you—Atithi devo bhava”. She and her husband took the food that remained
after serving the devotees, as if it were nectar.
One day, a wandering mendicant came and gave two ripe mangoes to Paramadatta.
Paramadatta gave them to his wife and attended to his business. A devotee came and asked
Punitavati to give him something to eat as he was very hungry. The food was not ready. So she gave
him one of the mangoes and some milk.
Paramadatta returned home and took his food. Punitavati served him with mango fruit that
remained. Paramadatta found it very delicious. He asked her to bring the other fruit also. She prayed
to Lord Siva. Immediately, a mango fell into her hands. It looked exactly like the one served before.
She gave it to her husband. He found it a thousand times more palatable than the first one. He asked
Punitavati: “My beloved Punitavati, where did you get it from?” She narrated everything.
Paramadatta said: “Get me another”. Punitavati got another mango in the twinkling of an eye.
Paramadatta was struck with awe and wonder. He understood that his wife was a beloved
devotee of Lord Siva. He reflected within himself: “I am a great sinner. I have treated a great
devotee of Lord Siva as my servant. I cannot consider her as my wife any longer. It will be a great
sin to leave her alone. But what to do now?”
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He was in a dilemma. Finally, he resolved to part from her. He told his wife that he was
going out on professional business. He obtained her permission and proceeded to Madurai. He
settled there and married another wife. The second wife gave birth to a daughter. Paramadatta
named her Punitavati.
Punitavati was anxiously awaiting the return of her husband at the promised time. She had
no news of him. She became very miserable and unhappy. After some time, she came to know about
the whereabouts of her husband. She proceeded to Madurai and met her husband.
Paramadatta welcomed her with intense joy and prostrated at her feet. He said to his wife: “I
am a worldly man. I am passionate and greedy. You are a goddess. I cannot take you now as my
wife. Pray, pardon me”.
Punitavati replied: “My lord, I have preserved my youth and beauty for your sake only. As
you do not want me, I shall seek my Lord Siva now.”
She distributed all the jewels to those assembled around. She worshipped the pious
Brahmins and shook off all the flesh by the power of Yoga and looked as a mere skeleton. She
marched northward.
She came to Mount Kailas. She thought it a sin to walk with one’s feet in the holy
Himalayas. She moved on her head through the power of her austerities.
Parvati asked Lord Siva: “Who is that person, O Lord, who is coming towards us?” Lord
Siva replied: “That pious woman is My Mother, who nourished My devotees”.
Lord Siva got up, moved a few steps forward, welcomed Punitavati and said: “My dear
Mother, are you keeping fit?”
Punitavati fed the devotees like a mother. The Lord makes no distinction between Himself
and His devotees. He has said: “The devotees form My heart and I, theirs. They do not think of
anyone other than Me and I other than them”.
The supreme Lord abides in the hearts of all beings. Therefore, the guests deserve worship.
The Srutis declare: “Atithi devo bhava—Let the guest be your God”.
The Sixty-Three Nayanar Saints
The Nayanars were the sincere and ardent devotees of Lord Siva. Some were the
contemporaries of Appar and Sambandhar. Only a few had made a study of the Agamas. The rest
were pure and simple Bhaktas only. They served the devotees of Lord Siva and made absolute
self-surrender to the Lord. They were quite ignorant of philosophy. They practised Chariyai. They
cleaned the temple premises, made garlands of flowers for the Lord, lighted the temple lamps,
planted flower gardens and fed the devotees of Lord Siva and served them. Worship of Siva
Bhaktas was regarded even superior to the worship of Lord Siva Himself.
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What is wanted is true devotion. Kannappa, the hunter, was totally ignorant of Saiva
doctrine, philosophy or worship, but attained within six days, the highest place possible for
devotees of Siva through the intensity of his devotion. The nature of Kannappa’s devotion was quite
different from that of the ordinary worshippers of Siva.
The names of some of the Nayanars are: Nedumara Nayanar, Kannappa Nayanar,
Sirutondar, Appudi Adigal, Muruga Nayanar, Tirunilanakka Nayanar, Kunguliakkalaya Nayanar,
Gananata Nayanar, Seraman Perumal Nayanar, Somasi Mara Nayanar, etc.
Tirunilakantha Nayanar was a potter of Chidambaram. Enadi Nayanar was a Sanar

(toddy-drawer). Tirukkuripputondar was a washerman. Adipatta Nayanar was a fisherman by caste.
Nesa Nayanar was a weaver by caste. Siva Bhaktas of the higher castes ate with the Bhaktas of other
castes. They had no caste-distinctions. They regarded that a life of devotion to Lord Siva was much
more important than the little distinctions of caste, etc.
Tirunilanakka Nayanar was one day performing the Puja. A spider fell upon the image of
Siva. His wife at once blew it away and spat on the place where it fell. The saint was very much
annoyed. He thought that the image had become impure. He wanted to abandon his wife. But Lord
Siva appeared before him in his dream and showed the saint how his whole body except where it
had been spat upon, was blistered owing to the fall of the spider. This opened the eyes of the saint.
He now realised that Bhakti is more important than the knowledge of the Sastras.
Sirutondar killed his child with his own hands and prepared meat to please the devotee of
Siva. He was prepared even to go against the rules of the scriptures, in order to practise what he
considered as Siva virtue. He was not a man of great erudition. He was not a philosopher and a
Yogi, but he had intense devotion to the devotees of Siva. What a great sacrifice he did in order to
serve the devotee! The Lord appeared before him with Parvati and Lord Subrahmanya and blessed
Sirutondar. The devotee and the dish of meat disappeared. Sirutondar went out and called his son.
The son came running towards him. The Lord does anything and everything for His Bhakta.
Kungilik-Kalaiya Nayanar was supplying incense to the Lord in the temple of

Tirukkadevur. He lost all his wealth. There was nothing left in the house. Then his wife gave him a
plate and asked him to buy some rice in exchange for it. The Nayanar bought incense and took it to
the temple. The Lord blessed his wife that night with abundant wealth and asked the Nayanar to go
to his house and take his meal. The Nayanar came to know that the king was not able to make erect
the Siva Lingam in the temple of Tiruppanandal. He tied the rope which was attached to the Lingam
round his own neck and pulled the Lingam to make it erect. The Lingam stood upright. Everybody
had now proof of the intensity of the Nayanar’s devotion. Nayanar had no knowledge of the Vedas
or the Agamas, but he was a true devotee of the Lord. What is wanted is sincere Bhakti. Study of
scriptures makes one proud of his learning and keeps him away from God.
Kannappa Nayanar plucked his own eye and replaced Siva’s bleeding eye with his own. He
resolved to give his second eye also. But Lord Siva stopped him from doing it. Kannappa regained
his eye-sight and became from that moment, a God himself and took his seat by the side of Lord
Siva. He did not chant Rudra and Chamakam. He was not a Brahmin. He was a hunter. He did his
worship in his own way by bathing the image with the water carried in his own mouth, threw the
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flowers down from his own tuft and offered the best part of the cooked pig after examining with his
teeth. Pandits and Sastris do thousand and one Rudras, and yet they are far from God, because there
is not an iota of real devotion. They have a stony, barren, sin-hardened heart.
Iyarpagai Nayanar was observing the vow of giving everything that the devotees of Siva
wanted. Lord Siva wanted to test him. He came in the garb of a Brahmin Siva devotee, in the garb of
a libertine. The devotee asked the Nayanar: “Give me your wife”. Nayanar willingly gave his wife.
His relatives objected and fought with him. The Nayanar escorted the pseudo-Yogi into the forest.
The pseudo-Yogi vanished to reappear in his real form of Siva on the sacred bull.
Eripatta Nayanar killed the elephant and five men as the elephant destroyed the flowers
which were in the possession of Sivakam Andar for the worship of the Lord. Lord Siva appeared
and saved the king and the Nayanar and the elephant with the five people who were lying dead.
Arivattaya Nayanar began to cut his throat as he was not able to give the usual food of red
rice to Lord Siva. Lord Siva stopped him from cutting his throat and took him to His abode.
Murti Nayanar used to offer sandalwood paste to Lord Siva at Madurai. When sandalwood
was not available he began to rub his elbow very hard upon the sandstone. Lord Siva was moved.
The Nayanar was made the king. He reached the abode of Siva.
Nanda, the untouchable saint entered the fire and came out of it in the form of a holy ascetic
with sacred thread on his shoulders through the grace of Lord Siva.
Tirukkuripputondar was a washerman by caste. He washed the clothes of the devotees of

Siva. Lord Siva wanted to test him. He appeared as a poor man with a very dirty rag. The saint
washed the rag. As there was a very heavy rain, he could not dry the rag. He was very much afflicted
at heart. He began to dash his head against the stone on which he washed the clothes. Lord Siva
appeared before him and gave him salvation.
Nami Nandi Adigal lighted the lamp with water through the grace of Lord Siva. A devotee
can do anything through the grace of the Lord.
Kali Kamba Nayanar used to welcome the devotees of Siva to his house and feed them after
washing their feet. His wife helped him to do that. On one occasion, one who had been some time
back their servant, came into the house as a Siva devotee. The Nayanar as usual began to wash his
feet but his wife refused to help him. Nayanar cut off her hands and did the service himself. He also
attained the abode of Lord Siva.
Kalianayanar used to light the temple lamps with oil supplied by himself. He lost all his
property. He thought of selling his wife but no one would purchase her. Then he resolved to offer
his own blood in the place of oil. When he was trying to do this Lord Siva blessed him.
Kanampulla Nayanar was lighting the lamp in Siva temples. He lost all his property. He
began to cut grass and purchase oil out of the money realised by selling grass. He could not sell the
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grass one day and so he burnt the grass itself. He could not get even the grass one day. He resolved
to burn his hair. Lord Siva showered His grace upon the Nayanar and took him to His abode.
Saint Seruttunai Nayanar cut off the nose of the queen for smelling a flower which had been
gathered for the sake of Siva and which had accidentally fallen on the floor. The king came to know
of this and gave an additional punishment to the queen by cutting of her head also. There was a rain
of flowers. Kalarunga Nayanar, the king, attained the grace of the Lord.
The Nayanars were not much concerned with Siva doctrines or Saiva Philosophy. They
attached the greatest importance to Siva worship, even though it was against the ordinary rules of
right and wrong. They had the utmost regard for the externals of Siva worship. They were prepared
to do anything to preserve these outward forms, even at the cost of their lives. Even bigotry was not
considered as a vice.
You can clearly understand from the life history of these Nayanars that any one whatever
his caste might be, and whatever his service be, could attain the grace of Lord Siva.
Saivas of these times were staunch devotees of Saivism. Ordinary rules of ethics and
morality could not be applied to the Nayanars.
Chapter XIII
FESTIVALS
Lighting Festival at Arunachala
Lord Siva assumed the form of a hill at Tiruvannamalai in Tamilnadu. Here, He quelled the
pride of Brahma and Vishnu who were quarrelling as to their relative greatness. One day, when
Lord Siva was in meditation, Parvati left Him and went to the hill of Arunachala. There she
performed penances. She was the guest of the sage Gautama. It was during her penance here that
Mahishasura was killed by Durga bidden by Parvati. Parvati saw Lord Siva as Arunachalesvara.
She was taken back by Lord Siva to His side and made again Ardhanari, as Apitaku Chamba.
Arunachalesvara is Tejolinga. Arunachala represents the Agni Tattva of the Pancha Bhuta
Kshetras.
Arunachalam is another name for Tiruvannamalai. In days of yore, many Siddha Purushas
lived in this hill. Idyakadar, Arunagirinathar lived here. This place is famous for its Festival of
Lighting (Kartigai Dipam) every year during the month of Kartigai (November), on the day when
the full moon falls in the Kartigai Nakshatram. The lighting takes place at about 5 or 5.30 in the
evening. A big hollow in a rock is filled with ghee, oil and camphor. A big wick is put in the ghee
and lighted. The lighting is seen even at a distance of sixteen miles. It is regarded that he who
beholds this light does not take any future birth. The light burns continuously for three months.
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A veil is put around the light at the top of the Arunachala hill. The people bring the Isvara
Vigraha outside the temple at 5.30 p.m. as soon as Kartigai Nakshatra dawns. Then a Bhana (fire
work) is sent towards the light in the hill through the sky. The man who is in charge of the lighting at
the hill removes the veil at once. Then the people see the big light and worship the light with folded
hands. They repeat loudly ‘Harahara, Harohara’.
The esoteric significance is that he who sees the Light of lights that is burning eternally in
the chambers of one’s heart, through constant meditation, attains immortality. The lighting in the
Arunachala brings the message to you that the Atman or Lord Siva is self-effulgent, Jyotis-Svarupa,
Light of lights, Sun of suns.
The big light at the hill represents Lord Siva or Paramatman (Supreme Soul). The Bhana is
Jiva or the individual soul. The veil represents Avidya that covers the individual soul. The Bhana
burns the veil and merges itself in the big light. Even so, if you destroy Avidya by the fire of
meditation and Vichara, you can merge yourself in the Supreme Soul or Light of lights.
Kanjivaram, Jambukesvara, Tiruvannamalai, Kalahasti and Chidambaram are the five

Bhuta Linga Kshetras. Prithvi Lingam is at Kanjivaram. Apas Lingam is at Jambukesvaram.
Tejo-Lingam is at Tiruvannamalai. Vayu-Lingam is at Kalahasti. Akasa-Lingam is at
Chidambaram.
These five places represent the apex of five angles of a five triangled figure which
represents the five Bhutas of which the entire world is made up. The Tejas-Tattva is in the middle of
the five Bhutas. It forms the way through which the Supreme Soul or Lord Siva can be known or
seen or realised by the Jiva. The fire of meditation burns the Avidya of the Jiva and helps him to
merge himself in the Supreme Light.
The Vedantin holds that Vak (speech) is Brahman. He proves that Vak is Agni or fire and
deduces his doctrine of unity. Agni is the presiding deity of speech. Vak is Agni. Vak is Brahman.
The Panchamurtis or Pancha Tattvas meet at a time which is neither night nor day, when the
sun and the moon shine together. The light at the hill is seen at a distance of sixteen miles. This
represents the ‘Purnakala’ or Brahman.
The Yogi beholds that light during meditation at the crown of the head, which represents the
top of the Arunachala hill, and merges himself in it during Nirvikalpa Samadhi.
Annihilate the three impurities, Anava, Karma and Maya. Burn the mind, senses and the
Vasanas in the fire of knowledge of the Self or Sivajnanam. Attain full illumination and behold the
Light of lights which illumines the mind, intellect, sun, stars, lightning and the fire. This is real
Kartigai Dipam.
May the Light of lights illumine you all! May Lord Siva bless you with more light! May you
merge in this Supreme Light and attain the eternal bliss of Immortality!
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Vijaya Dasami
The Mother aspect of Godhead is the source of power, prosperity and learning and is
worshipped during the Navaratri or Dassera, as Durga, Lakshmi and Sarasvati. Each aspect is
worshipped for three nights.
Vijaya Dasami is the tenth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Asvina. It is a great
soul-stirring festival which is observed with great éclat throughout the length and breadth of India.
It was on the Vijaya Dasami day that Arjuna, the Pandava hero worshipped the Goddess
before starting the fight against the evil-minded Kauravas. It was on that day that Ravana was killed
in battle by Sri Rama.
It is the day of victory. Boys are put in the school on this day. ‘Hari Om Narayanaya
Siddham’, ‘Om Sri Ganesaya Namah’, ‘Om Sri Hayagrivaya Namah’ are taught to them. Aspirants
are initiated on this day.
On this memorable day, the carpenter, the tailor, the mason, the artist, the songster, the
typist and all technical workers do Puja for their instruments and implements. This is Ayudha Puja.
They behold and recognise the Sakti or power behind these instruments and worship the Devi, for
their success, prosperity and peace.
Sri Rama built a united India. Sri Rama gained victory over Ravana who had his capital in
Lanka, but whose dominions had been extended over a large part of India. Vijaya Dasami is the day
of anniversary of the birth of one united India. It is observed in commemoration of the great victory
(Vijaya) of Sri Rama over the Rakshasa king, Ravana. It is the day of triumph of righteousness over
unrighteousness.
Angada, Hanuman and others celebrated the victory of Sri Rama over Ravana with great
religious ardour, under the leadership of pious Vibhishana, embraced one another in friendship and
showed their intense devotion and reverence to Sri Rama. From that day onwards this great victory
(Vijaya) has been commemorated year after year by all Hindus.
Sri Rama’s victory over Ravana is the victory of spirit over matter, the victory of Sattva over
Rajas and Tamas, the victory of soul over mind, sense and body, the victory of idealism over
materialism, the victory of goodness over evil, the victory of love and truth over hatred and
falsehood, the victory of self-sacrifice and renunciation over selfishness and possession, the victory
of the oppressed over the oppressor, the victory of the labour over the capitalists and the
imperialists. The memory of this day brings hope and joy to the hearts of the poorest and the most
depressed. It humbles the pride of the rich, the strong and the learned, and inspires them to embrace
the poor, the weak and the illiterate in love and brotherliness. It awakens a sense of unity among all
classes of people.
The Vijaya Dasami has thus become a festival for awakening of universal unity, fraternity,
peace and bliss.
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The Sakta Puranas interpret this in another way. Rama tried to attain victory through His
own valour and prowess but failed. Afterwards, He surrendered His egoism to the Maha Sakti or
Devi, and placed Himself as an instrument in Her hands. Thereupon, Devi really fought with
Ravana and brought the victory for Sri Rama.
There is an eternal fight going on between Devas and Asuras, between Sattva and
Rajas-Tamas, between evil tendencies and virtuous tendencies in man. Gods represent Sattvic
forces. The demons or Asuras represent the evil forces. That day on which one kills these evil
tendencies, viz., lust, anger, greed, egoism, hatred and attains knowledge of Self or illumination
through the grace of the Divine Mother, is the real Vijaya Dasami day or the day of real victory of
Self over the non-Self.
May the Devi, Mother Durga teach mankind the way of Dharma and righteousness and
bestow peace, bliss and contentment and the final beatitude!
Dassera
Dassera is the greatest Hindu festival of adoring God as Mother. Hinduism is the only
religion in the world which has emphasised much on the Motherhood of God. Mother is the dearest
and sweetest of all human relations. Hence, it is proper to look upon God as Mother.
Dassera, Durga Puja and Navaratri are one and the same. Durga is the Sakti of Lord Siva.
She is the representation of the power of the Supreme Lord. There is no difference between the Lord
and His power. She looks after the affairs of the world. The Divine Mother in Her aspect of Durga is
represented as having ten different weapons in Her ten hands. She is sitting on a lion. This indicates
that She has control over all forces, even over the brutal force which the lion stands for.
You will find in Devi Sukta of the Rig-Veda Samhita that Vak, the daughter of sage
Anbhirna realised her identity with the Divine Mother, the power of the Supreme Lord which
manifests throughout the entire universe among the gods, among men and beasts, among the
creatures of the deep ocean.
In the Kena Upanishad, you will find that the Divine Mother shed wisdom to Indra and the
gods, and said that the gods were able to defeat the demons with the help of the power of the
Supreme Lord.
Mahishasura, a great demon, was severely oppressing the gods. The gods invoked the aid of
the Divine Mother Durga. She assumed a form with ten hands bearing ten weapons and killed the
Asura. Devi fought with Bhandasura and his forces for nine days and nine nights and completed the
destruction of all Asuras on the evening of the tenth day, known as the Vijaya Dasami or the day of
victory. All the ten days are sacred to Devi.
The Hindus of Bengal worship Goddess Durga on the three days preceding the Vijaya
Dasami and perform the immersion ceremony on the Vijaya Dasami day. Durga is also worshipped
in March-April during the Vasanta Puja.
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The Mother of Durga, wife of the king of Himalayas, longs to see her daughter Durga.
Durga is permitted by Lord Siva to visit Her beloved mother only for three days in the year. The
festival of Durga Puja is to celebrate this brief visit and it ends with the Vijaya Dasami day when the
Goddess Durga leaves for Kailas.
Sri Rama worshipped Durga at the time of the fight with Ravana, to invoke Her aid in the
war during the days preceding the Vijaya Dasami day. He fought and won through Her grace.
In Bengal, Durga Puja is a great festival. All who live away from home return home during
the Puja days. Mothers meet their distant sons and daughters, wives their husbands.
The potter shows his skill in making the images, the painter in drawing pictures, the
songster in playing on his instrument and the priest in reciting the sacred books. The Bengalis save
money all the year round only to spend it all during the Puja days. Cloth is distributed.
The Hindu woman of Bengal welcomes the Goddess with a mother’s love, and sends away
the image on the last day with every ceremony associated with a daughter’s departure for her
husband’s home and with motherly tears in her eyes.
May you all worship Goddess Durga with intense faith and devotion and attain eternal bliss
and immortality through Her Grace! Glory to the Divine Mother Durga and Her consort Lord Siva,
the joint parents of the universe.
Vasanta Navaratri
Devi is worshipped during the Vasanta Navaratri. This occurs during the spring. The
worship of Devi is ordained by Her own command. You will find this in the following episode from
the Devi Bhagavata.
In days long gone by, Dhruvasindhu, a noble and virtuous king of solar dynasty, ruled over
the Kosala country. He had two wives, Manorama and Lilavati. Manorama was the senior queen.
Both of them gave birth to beautiful sons. Manorama’s son was named Sudarsana and Lilavati’s
son, Satrujit.
King Dhruvasindhu was killed by a lion when he went out for hunting. Preparations were
made to crown the crown-prince Sudarsana. But king Yudhajit of Ujjain, the father of queen
Lilavati and king Virasena of Kalinga, the father of queen Manorama were each desirous of
securing the Kosala throne to their respective grandsons. They fought with each Other. King
Virasena was killed in the battle. Manorama fled to the forest with prince Sudarsana and a eunuch.
They took refuge in the Ashrama of Rishi Bharadvaja.
King Yudhajit crowned his grandson, Satrujit, at Ayodhya, the capital of Kosala. He went
out to search Manorama and her son in order to put them out of the way, but could not find them.
After some time, he came to know that they were in the Ashrama of Rishi Bharadvaja.
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He at once started with a big army to the Ashrama. Yudhajit arrogantly demanded of Rishi
Bharadvaja the surrender of Manorama and her son. The Rishi said that he would not give up those
who had sought protection under him. Yudhajit became very furious. He wanted to attack the Rishi.
But his minister told him about the truth of the Rishi’s statement. Yudhajit returned to his capital.
Fortune began to smile on prince Sudarsana. The son of a hermit called the eunuch by his
Sanskrit name ‘Kleeba’. The prince caught the first syllable ‘Klee’ and began to pronounce it as
‘Kleem’. This syllable is a powerful, sacred Mantra. It is the Bija Akshara of Parasakti. The prince
obtained peace of mind and the grace of the Divine Mother, by the repeated utterings of this
syllable. Devi appeared to him, blessed him and gave him divine weapons, and an inexhaustible
arrow-case.
The emissaries of the king of Banares passed through the Ashrama of the Rishi, and saw the
noble prince Sudarsana and recommended him to princess Sasikala, the daughter of the king of
Banares.
A Svayamvara was arranged. Sasikala chose Sudarsana. Yudhajit also was there. Sasikala
was wedded to Sudarsana. Yudhajit began to fight with the king of Banares. Devi helped Sudarsana
and his father-in-law. Yudhajit mocked at the Devi. Devi reduced Yudhajit and his army to ashes.
Sudarsana and his wife and his father-in-law praised the Devi. She was highly pleased and
ordered them to perform Her worship with Homa and other means in all the four Navaratris of the
months—Ashadha, Asvina, Magha and Chaitra, beginning with the Sukla Prathama. Then She
disappeared.
Thereupon, prince Sudarsana and princess Sasikala came back to the Ashrama of Rishi
Bharadvaja. The great Rishi blessed them and crowned Sudarsana as the king of Kosala. Sudarsana
and Sasikala and the king of Banares implicitly carried out the commands of the Divine Mother and
performed worship in a splendid manner during each of these Navaratri days.
Sudarsana’s descendants, Sri Rama and Lakshmana, also performed worship of Devi
during the Vasanta Navaratri and were blessed with Her assistance in the recovery of Sita.
It is your duty also to perform the worship of Devi for your material and spiritual welfare
during the Vasanta Navaratri and follow the noble example set by Sudarsana and Sri Rama. You
cannot achieve anything without Mother’s blessings. Sing the prayers of the Divine Mother. Repeat
Her Mantra and Name. Meditate on Her form. Do Puja. Pray and obtain Her eternal grace and
blessings.
Gauri Puja
Goddess Gauri or Parvati is the consort of Lord Siva. She is the Sakti of Siva. She is
recognised as the highest ideal of Indian womanhood. She is a perfect model of feminine virtues.
Maidens worship Gauri and invoke Her grace and blessings for securing a suitable bridegroom. She
is adored by married women also for securing long life for their husbands.
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Certain days are held very sacred to Her memory. Hindu ladies observe fast on these days
and worship Goddess Gauri in and through the crescent moon, before breaking the fast.
Chapter XIV
SIVA YOGA MALA
Books on Saivism
The twentyeight Saiva Agamas, the hymns (Tevaram and Tiruvasagam) of the Saiva saints
form the chief sources of Southern Saivism. The Saiva hymns compiled by Nambi Andar Nambi
(A.D. 1000) are collectively called Tirumurai. Tevaram contains the hymns of Sambandhar, Appar
and Sundarar. The hymns of Manickavasagar are called Tiruvasagam.
The Agamanta called Saiva Siddhanta is the essence of the 28 Sanskrit Agamas. Agamanta
is the inner meaning of the Veda.
Seklar’s Periyapuranam (llth century) gives a description of the sixtythree Saiva saints.
Tiruvasagam is a collection of fiftyone poems of unsurpassed spiritual experiences and

grandeur. Dr. G.V. Pope has translated this into English.
In the beginning of the 13th century, the great Saiva Siddhanta philosophical movement
was inaugurated by Saint Meykandar who is the eminent author of Sivajnana Bodham, the central
work of the system. Sivajnana Bodham is regarded as an expansion of twelve verses of the Raurava
Agama. This book is the standard exposition of the Saiva Siddhanta views. It contains in a nutshell a
systematic expression of the system. It opened the eyes of Tamilians to the supreme excellence of
this philosophy. Saint Meykandar taught his philosophy to fortynine disciples, propagated and
popularised the system.
Arulnandi Sivachariar, the first of the fortynine disciples of Meykandar, is the author of the
important work Siva Jnana Siddhiyar. He is also the author of Irupa-Irupathu.
In the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, there arose fourteen philosophical works, known
as standard Saiva Siddhanta Sastras. They are Tiruvundiar, Tirukalitrupadiar, Sivajnana Bodham,
Sivajnana Siddhiar, Irupa-Irupathu, Unmai Vilakkam, Sivaprakasam, Tiru Arul Payan,
Vina-vemba, Partripatirodai, Kodikkavi, Nenju Vidu Thoothu, Unmai Neri Vilakkam and
Sangarpaniraharanam.
Sivaprakasam and Tiru Arul Payan are two well-known books written by Umapati
Sivachariar (14th century). He is the author of other six Sastras of the group. Tiruvendiar was
composed by Saint Uyyavanda-deva-nayanar of Tiruvayalur about the middle of the 12th century.
Tirukkadavur Uyyavanda-deva-nayanar was the author of the Tirukalitrupadiar.
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SIVA YOGA MALA
Unmai Vilakkam is one of the fourteen Sastras written by Manavasagam Kadanthar,

another disciple of Meykandar.
Tirumandiram is one of the most authoritative works embodying the Saiva doctrine. The
author is Tirumula Nayanar. This work is the foundation upon which the later structure of Saiva
Siddhanta philosophy was built. The Saiva doctrine of the Sanskrit Agamas are translated in this
book. It is a work of three thousand stanzas composed in the course of three thousand years. It deals
with the practical and theoretical aspects of the Saiva religion and philosophy.
Jnanamritam is the earliest treatise which treats of the Siddhanta concepts in the modern
scientific manner.
The Saiva Siddhanta rests on the twofold tradition of the Vedas and the Agamas.
Nilakantha, who flourished in the 14th century, undertook the systematic reconciliation of the two.
He wrote a commentary on the Brahma Sutras. He interpreted it in the light of the Saiva system.
Appayya Dikshita’s commentary called Sivarka Mani Dipika is a valuable book.
Siva Purana, Linga Purana, Siva Parakrama, Tiruvilayadal Puranam, Periyapuranam treat
of the glory of Lord Siva. These books are translated into Tamil. Bhakta Vilasam is a Sanskrit work.
It is a minor Purana upon the Skanda Purana.
The twentyeight Agamas were written in Sanskrit in the valley of Kashmir. This Agamanta
arose in North India long before Jainism came into prominence. It was known there by the name
Pratyabhijna Darsanam. Then it spread westwards and southwards. In Western India, it was known
by Vita Mahesvara Darsanam, and in South India it was called Suddha Saiva Darsanam. Linga
Purana is held in great respect by the Vira Mahesvaras.
Chidambara Rahasya
Lord Siva is worshipped in Chidambaram as a formless presence, Akasa Lingam.

Chidambaram is an ancient centre of religion and culture. Siva is worshipped at Chidambaram in
the dancing aspect as Nataraja. Ardra Darsana, one of the most important festivals of South India, is
celebrated every year at Chidambaram, in the month of Margasirsha.
Within the temple is the ‘Nritya Sabha’ or ‘the hall of the dance’. In front of the central
shrine is a structure of wood surmounted with tall golden roof known as the ‘Kanaka Sabha’ or ‘the
hall of golden dome’. The central temple is dedicated to Nataraja. It is a plain wooden building
standing on a stone-pavement, but behind it is an apartment of polished black stone, the roof of
which is formed of gold plates. Opposite to the Sivaganga tank, is the ‘Raja Sabha’ or ‘the hall of
one thousand columns’, with granite pillars. King Varua Chola purified himself by bathing in the
tank and attained a golden hue.
The five Prakaras of a Siva temple represent the five Kosas of the body. The three Prakaras
of certain temples represent the three bodies of a man. Garbhagriha, Ardhamandap, Mahamandap,
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Snana-mandap, Alankara-mandap, Sabha-mandap represent the six Chakras or the six Adharas of
the body.
The Darsanopanishad says: “Chidambaram is in the centre of the heart. Chidambaram is the
heart of Virat Purusha”. The Mandap with thousand pillars represents the Sahasrara or the
thousand-petalled lotus on the crown of the head. Sivaganga represents the pool of nectar,
Amritavapi, in Sahasrara. The place where there are Jyotirlinga and Sri Gurumurti, represents
Visuddha Chakra. In Tiruchittambalam or Maha Sabha there are five Pithams for Brahma, Vishnu,
Rudra, Mahesvara and Sadasiva. The five letters of Panchakshara form the five steps, and the veil
represents Avidya or Avarana. The ninetysix Tattvas form the ninetysix windows. The four golden
pillars which are in the centre represent the four Vedas. The twentyeight wooden pillars which
surround them represent the twentyeight Agamas. The space that is within the pillars represents
Suddha Vidya. Lord Nataraja has His seat in the Pranavapitham.
There is ‘Tiruchittambalam’ behind. This is Chidakasa or the famous ‘Chidambara

Rahasya’. Sivakama Sundari or Parasakti has Her seat in Garbhagriha. Rahasya is Nishkala.
Ananda Nataraja Murti is Sakala.
In the East is Brahma. In the South is Vishnu. In the North is Bhairava or Samhara Rudra.
There are nine Kalasas in the tower. These represent the nine Saktis. The sixtyfour wooden supports
in the tower represent the sixtyfour Vidyas or Kalas. The twentyone thousand six hundred copper
plates coated with gold, represent the daily twentyone thousand six hundred breaths of a man. The
seventy two thousand nails represent the seventytwo thousand nerves or the astral tubes in the body.
The eighteen pillars of Kanaka Sabha represent eighteen Puranas. Kanaka Sabha represents
the Manipura Chakra. The five Sabhas represent the five Kosas.
If one rightly understands the secrets of Chidambara temple and worships the Lord Nataraja
with intense faith, devotion, purity and one-pointedness of mind, he will attain knowledge and
eternal bliss. He will be freed from bondage.
Birth in Tiruvarur gives Mukti. Death in Banares gives Mukti. Darsana of Nataraja of
Chidambaram gives Mukti.
Adjacent to the Kanaka Sabha is a temple dedicated to Govinda Raja or Vishnu. This
teaches a lesson that Siva and Vishnu are essentially one and that a Virasaivite or Vira Vaishnavite
should abandon his bigotry and should have a large heart and equal devotion to Lord Siva and Lord
Hari and should see his Ishtam in all Murtis.
May Lord Nataraja and Sivakami bless you all and give an understanding heart to
comprehend the Chidambara Rahasya!
Siva and Vishnu are One
A Saivite is a devotee of Lord Siva. A Vaishnavite is a devotee Of Lord Vishnu. Upasana

means worship or sitting near God. Upasaka is one who does Upasana. Upasana or Aradhana leads
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SIVA YOGA MALA
to realisation of God. A bigoted Virasaivite entertains hatred towards Lord Vishnu, Vaishnavites
and Puranas which treat of Vishnu. He never enters a Vishnu temple. He never drinks water from a
Vaishnavite. He never takes food with a Vaishnavite. He never repeats the name of Hari. He speaks
ill of Lord Hari, Vaishnavites and Vishnu Purana. He thinks that Lord Siva is superior to Lord
Vishnu. He never reads Vishnu Purana. Is this not the height of folly? Is this not extreme ignorance?
He has not understood the true nature of Lord Siva. He has no idea of true religion. He is a fanatic, a
bigot, a man of little understanding, a narrow sectarian, with a very small constricted heart. He is
like a frog in the well which has no idea of the vast ocean.
A bigoted Vira Vaishnavite entertains hatred towards Lord Siva, Saivites and Siva Puranas
which treat of Lord Siva. He never enters a Siva temple. He never makes friendship with a Saivite.
He never drinks water from the hands of a Saivite. He also behaves exactly like the Virasaivite. The
lot of this man is also highly deplorable.
There is a temple in Sankaranarayanar Koil in the Tirunelveli district (Tamilnadu), where

the idol has one half of it depicted as Siva and the other half as Vishnu. The inner significance of this
is that Lord Siva and Lord Vishnu are one. Sri Sankaracharya also has said in very clear terms that
Siva and Vishnu are the one all-pervading Soul.
On one occasion, a Virasaivite entered the temple in Sankaranarayanar Koil to worship the
Lord. He offered incense. He plugged the nostrils of Vishnu with the cotton as the fumes were
entering His nose also. After that a Vira Vaishnavite entered the temple and he also offered incense.
He plugged the nostrils of Siva as the fumes were entering His nose also. Such is the bigotry and
narrow-mindedness of sectarians. A devotee should have a large, broad heart. He must see his
tutelary deity in all aspects of the Lord and in all forms. He can have intense love for his Ishtam in
the beginning, to intensify his devotion for that particular deity (Prema-nishtha), but he should have
equal devotion to the other forms of the Lord also.
Siva and Vishnu are one and the same entity. They are essentially one and the same. They
are the names given to the different aspects of the all-pervading Supreme Soul or the Absolute.
‘Sivasya hridayam vishnur-vishnoscha hridayam sivah—Vishnu is the heart of Siva and likewise
Siva is the heart of Vishnu’.
The sectarian worship is of recent origin. The Saiva Siddhanta of Kantacharya is only five
hundred years old. The Vaishnava cults of Madhva and Sri Ramanuja are only six hundred and
seven hundred years old respectively. There was no sectarian worship before seven hundred years.
Brahma represents the creative aspect; Vishnu, the preservative aspect; and Siva, the
destructive aspect of Paramatman. This is just like your wearing different garbs on different
occasions. When you do the function of a judge, you put on one kind of dress. At home you wear
another kind of dress. When you do worship in the temple, you wear another kind of dress. You
exhibit different kinds of temperament on different occasions. Even so, the Lord does the function
of creation when He is associated with Rajas, and He is called Brahma. He preserves the world
when He is associated with Sattva Guna, and He is called Vishnu. He destroys the world when He is
associated with Tamo-Guna, and He is called Siva or Rudra.
130
Brahma, Vishnu and Siva have been correlated to the three Avasthas or states of
consciousness. During the waking state, Sattva predominates. During the dream state Rajas
predominates and during the deep sleep state Tamas predominates. Hence Vishnu, Brahma and
Siva are the Murtis of Jagrat, Svapna and Sushupti states of consciousness respectively. The Turiya
or the fourth state is Para Brahman. The Turiya state is immediately next to the deep sleep state.
Worship of Siva will lead quickly to the attainment of the fourth state.
Vishnu Purana glorifies Vishnu and in some places gives a lower position to Siva. Siva
Purana glorifies Siva and gives a lower status to Vishnu. Devi Bhagavata glorifies Devi and gives a
lower status to Brahma, Vishnu and Siva. This is only to instil and intensify devotion for the
respective deity in the hearts of the devotees. In reality, no deity is superior to another. You must
understand the heart of the writer.
May you all realise the oneness of Siva and Vishnu! May you all be endowed with pure
subtle intellect and proper understanding!
Sivaratri Mahima
Silent adorations to Lord Siva, consort of Parvati, the destructive aspect of Brahman, who is
known by the names Sambhu, Sankara, Mahadeva, Sadasiva, Visvanatha, Hara, Tripurari,
Gangadhara, Sulapani, Nilakantha, Dakshinamurti, Chandrasekhara, Nilalohita, etc., who is the
bestower of auspiciousness, immortality and divine knowledge on His devotees, and who does
Tandava Nritya or the Dance of Death at the end of Time or Cosmic Pralaya, and who is the real
Regenerator but not the destroyer.
Maha Sivaratri means the great night consecrated to Lord Siva. Maha Sivaratri falls on
Trayodasi or the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of Kumbha month (February-March).
In the Santi Parva of the Mahabharata, Bhishma refers to the observance of the Maha
Sivaratri, by king Chitrabhanu, when he was giving the discourse on Dharma, resting on his bed of
arrows.
Once upon a time, king Chitrabhanu of the Ikshvaku dynasty, who was ruling over the
whole of Jambudvipa, and his wife were observing a fast on the day of Maha Sivaratri. The Sage
Ashtavakra came on a visit to the court of the king.
The Sage asked: “O king, why are you observing fast today?” King Chitrabhanu explained
the reason for observing a fast on that day. He had the gift of remembering the incidents of his
previous birth.
He said to the Sage Ashtavakra: “I was a hunter by name Susvar in my previous birth. I eked
out my livelihood by killing and selling birds and animals. One day, I was roaming in a forest in
search of animals. I was overtaken by the darkness of night. I was not able to return home and so I
climbed up a Bilva tree for shelter. I shot a deer that day but I had no time to take it home. As I was
tormented by hunger and thirst, I kept awake throughout the night. I shed profuse tears when I
thought of my poor wife and children who were starving and anxiously awaiting my return. I
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SIVA YOGA MALA
engaged myself in plucking and dropping down the Bilva leaves. There was a Siva Linga at the foot
of the Bilva tree. The tears and the leaves fell upon the Siva Linga.
“The day dawned. I returned home and sold the deer. I got food for myself and for my
family. I was about to break my fast. A stranger came to me and begged for food. I served him with
food first and then I took my food. At the hour of death, I saw two messengers of Lord Siva. They
were sent down for the sake of conducting my soul to the abode of Siva. I learnt there for the first
time, of the great merit I had earned by the observance of the fast on the day of Maha Sivaratri,
though I did it unconsciously by an accident. I lived in the abode of Siva and enjoyed divine bliss for
long ages. I am now reborn on this earth as Chitrabhanu”.
II
‘Sivaratri’ means ‘night of Lord Siva’. The important features of this religious function are
rigid fasting for twentyfour hours and sleepless vigil during the night. Every true devotee of Lord
Siva spends the night of Sivaratri in deep meditation, keeps vigil and observes fast.
The worship of Lord Siva consists in offering flowers, Bilva leaves and other gifts on the
Linga which is a symbol of Lord Siva, and bathing it with milk, honey, butter, ghee, rose-water, etc.
When creation had been completed, Siva and Parvati had been living on the top of Kailas.
Parvati asked: “O venerable Lord, which of the many rituals observed in Thy honour doth please
Thee most?” Lord Siva replied: “The thirteenth night of the new moon, Krishna Paksha, in the
month of Phalguna (February-March) is known as Sivaratri, My most favourable Tithi. My devotee
gives Me greater happiness by mere fasting than by ceremonial baths, and offerings of flowers,
sweets, incense, etc.
“The devotee observes strict spiritual discipline in the day and worships Me in four different
forms in the four successive Praharas, each made up of three hours of the night. The offering of a
few Bilva leaves is more precious to Me than the precious jewels and flowers. He should bathe Me
in milk at the first Prahara, in curd at the second, in clarified butter at the third, and in honey at the
fourth and last. Next morning, he should feed the Brahmins first and break the fast after the
performance of the prescribed ceremonies. There is no ritual, O Parvati, which can compare with
this simple routine in sanctity.
Just hear, My Beloved, of an episode which will give you an idea of the glory and power of
this ritual.
“Once upon a time, there lived in the town of Varanasi a hunter. He was returning from the
forest one evening with the game birds he had killed. He felt tired and sat at the foot of a tree to take
some rest. He was overpowered by sleep. When he woke up, it was all thick darkness of night. It
was the night of Sivaratri but he did not know it, He climbed up the tree, tied his bundle of dead
birds to a branch and sat up waiting for the dawn. The tree happened to be My favourite, the Bilva.
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“There was a Linga under that tree. He plucked a few leaves dropped them down. The
night-dew trickled down from his body. I was highly pleased with involuntary little gifts of the
hunter. The day dawned and the hunter returned to his house.
“In course of time, the hunter fell ill and gave up his last breath. The messengers of Yama
arrived at his bedside to carry his soul to Yama. My messengers also went to the spot to take him to
My abode. There was a severe fight between Yama’s messengers and My messengers. The former
were totally defeated. They reported the matter to their Lord. He presented himself in person at the
portals of My abode. Nandi gave him an idea of the sanctity of Sivaratri and the love which I had for
the hunter. Yama surrendered the hunter to Me and returned to his abode quickly.
“The hunter was able to enter My abode and ward off death by simple fasting and offering of
a few Bilva leaves, however involuntary it might be because it was the night of Sivaratri. Such is the
solemnity and sacredness associated with the night”.
Parvati was deeply impressed by the speech of Lord Siva on the sanctity and glory of the
ritual. She repeated it to Her friends who in their turn passed it on to the ruling princes on earth.
Thus was the sanctity of Sivaratri broadcast all over the world.
The Twelve Jyotirlingas
s::òra\XÕð s::ðm:n:aT:ö c: Â:iS:òl:ð m:ell:kaj:Øün:m:Î .

ujj:ey:ny:aö m:hakal:m::ðökarm:m:l:ðÃ:rm:Î .. 1..
p:rly:aö v:ò½n:aT:ö c: Rekny:aö B:im:S:ökrm:Î .
s:ðt:Øb:nD:ð t:Ø ram:ðS:ö n:ag:ðS:ö da,kav:n:ð .. 2..
v:araN:asy:aö t:Ø ev:Ã:ðS:ö *y:öb:kö g::òt:m:it:Xð .
ehm:al:y:ð t:Ø kñdarö G:Øs:àN:ðS:ö eS:v:al:y:ð .. 3..
Ot:aen: jy::ðet:el:ü¤aen: s:ay:ö )at:H p:YðÀrH .
s:pt:j:nm:kát:ö p:ap:ö sm:rN:ðn: ev:n:Sy:et: .. 4..
.. Eet: ¾adS: jy::ðet:el:üög:aen: ..
sauràùñre somanàthaü ca ÷rã÷aile mallikàrjunam |
ujjayinyàü mahàkàlamoükàramamale÷varam || 1 ||
paralyàü vaidyanàthaü ca óakinyàü bhãma÷aükaram |
setubandhe tu ràme÷aü nàge÷aü dàrukàvane || 2 ||
vàràõàsyàü tu vi÷ve÷aü tryaübakaü gautamãtañe |
himàlaye tu kedàraü ghusçõe÷aü ÷ivàlaye || 3 ||
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SIVA YOGA MALA
etàni jyotirliïgàni sàyaü pràtaþ pañhennaraþ |

saptajanmakçtaü pàpaü smaraõena vina÷yati || 4 ||
|| iti dvàda÷a jyotirliügàni ||
He who remembers the twelve Jyotirlingas morning and evening, becomes absolved from
sins committed in seven previous births. The twelve Jyotirlingas are:
1. Somanatha in Saurashtra (Gujarat), 2. Mallikarjuna in Srisaila (Andhra Pradesh), 3.

Mahakala in Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), 4. Omkaresvara in Amalesvara on the banks of Narmada
(Madhya Pradesh), 5. Vaidyanatha in Parali (Maharashtra), 6. Bhimasankara in Dakini
(Maharashtra), 7. Ramesvara in Setubandhana (Tamilnadu), 8. Nagesa in Darukavana (Gujarat), 9.
Visvesa in Varanasi or Banares (Uttar Pradesh), 10. Triyambaka on the banks of Godavari in Nasik
(Maharashtra), 11. Kedarnath in Himalayas (Uttar Pradesh), and 12. Ghusrunesa in Sivalaya
(Karnataka).
In Southern India, there are five famous Siva Lingas which represent the five elements.
1. In Kanjivaram (Tamilnadu), there is Prithvi Lingam. 2. In Tiruvanai Koil (Tamilnadu),

there is Appu Lingam. The Lingam is always in water. Tiruvanai Koil is otherwise known as
Jambukesvaram. 3. In Kalahasti (Andhra Pradesh), there is Vayu Lingam. 4. In Tiruvannamalai
(Tamilnadu), there is Tejolingam (Arunachalesvaram). 5. In Chidambaram (Tamilnadu), there is
Akasa Lingam.
Siva Nama Kirtan
1. Sivaya Nama Om Sivaya Namah, Sivaya Nama Om Namassivaya.

Siva Siva Siva Siva Sivaya Nama Om
Hara Hara Hara Hara Namassivaya.
Siva Siva Siva Siva Sivaya Nama Om
Bhum Bhum Bhum Bhum Namassivaya.
Sambasadasiva Sambasadasiva Sambasadasiva Sambasiva.
Om Namassivaya Om Namassivaya
Om Namassivaya Om Namassivaya.
...... Sivaya Namah Om Sivaya Namah ......
2. Om Siva Om Siva Omkara Siva Umamahesvara Tava Charanam.

Om Siva Om Siva Omkara Siva Paratpara Siva Tava Charanam.
Namami Sankara Bhavani Sankara Girija Sankara Tava Charanam.
Namami Sankara Bhavani Sankara Mridani Sankara Tava Charanam.
3. Hara Hara Siva Siva Sambo

Hara Hara Siva Siva Sambo
Hara Hara Siva Siva Hara Hara Sambo
Hara Hara Siva Siva Sambo
Hara Hara Siva Siva Sambo.
134
4. Namaste Namaste Vibho Visvamurte

Namaste Namaste Chidanandamurte
Namaste Namaste Tapoyogagamya
Namaste Namaste Srutijnanagamya.
5. Sankarane Sankarane Sambho Gangadharane,

Sankarane Sankarane Sambho Gangadharane.
6. Kasivisvanatha Sadasiva, Bhum Bolo Kailasapati Bhum Bolo Kailasapati.
7. Hara Hara Mahadeva Sambho Kasivisvanatha Gange

Visvanatha Gange Kasi Visvanatha Gange.
8. Om Siva Hara Hara Gange Hara Hara, Om Siva Hara Hara Gange Hara Hara
Om Siva Hara Hara Om Siva Hara Hara, Bhum Bhum Hara Hara Om Siva Hara Hara.
9. Mahadeva Siva Sankara Sambho Umakanta Hara Tripurare

Mrityunjaya Vrishabha-Dhvaja Sulin Gangadhara Mrida Madanare
Jaya Sambho Jaya Gauri Sankara Jaya Sambho
Jaya Sambho Jaya Sambho Jaya Gauri Sankara Jaya Sambho
Rudram Pasupatim Isanam Kalayami Kasipurinatham
Hara Siva Sankara Gaurisam Vande Ganga-dharamisam.
10. Jaya Siva Sankara Hara Tripurare Pahi Pasupati Pinakadharin.
11. Chandrasekhara Chandrasekhara Chandrasekhara Pahi Mam

Chandrasekhara Chandrasekhara Chandrasekhara Raksha Mam.
12. Agad Bhum Agad Bhum Bhaja Damaru, Nache Sadasiva Jagadguru
Nache Brahma Nache Vishnu Nache Mahadeva,
Kappar Leke Kali Nache Nache Adideva.
(Agad Bhum...)
13. Nataraja Nataraja Nartana Sundara Nataraja

Sivaraja Sivaraja Sivajkami Priya Sivaraja.
14. Bol Sankar Bol Sankar Sankar Sankar Bol

Hara Hara Hara Hara Mahadeva Sambho Sankar Bol
Siva Siva Siva Siva Sadasiva Sambho Sankar Bol.
15. Jaya Jagad-Janani Sankata-harani

Tribhuvana Tarini Mahesvari.
16. Jaya Gange Jaya Gange Rani

Jaya Gange Jaya Hara Gange.
135
SIVA YOGA MALA
17. Devi Bhajo Durga-Bhavani

Devi Bhajo Durga
Jagad-Janani Mahishasura-Mardini
Devi Bhajo Durga.
18. Radhe Govinda Bhajo Radhe Gopal

Radhe Govinda Bhajo Radhe Gopal.
19. Bruhi Mukundeti Rasane (Bruhi)

Kesava Madhava Govindeti
Krishnananda Sadanandeti (Bruhi)
Radha Ramana Hare Rameti
Rajivaksha Ghana Syameti (Bruhi).
20. Gauri Ramana Karunabharana

Pahi Kripa-Purna Sarana
Nila-Kantha-Dhara Gaura Sarira
Natha Jana-Subhakara Mandara (Gauri)
Bala-Chandra-Dhara Punya-Sarira
Suma-Sara-Mada-Hara Sankara (Gauri).
21. Piba Re Rama Rasam Rasane

Piba Re Rama Rasam
Durikrita-Pataka-Samsargam
Purita Nana Vidha Phala Vargam (Piba Re)
Janana-Marana-Bhaya-Soka Viduram
Sakala Sastra-Nigamagama-Saram (Piba Re)
Pari-Palita-Sarasija-Garbhandam
Parama Pavitrikrita Pashandam (Piba Re)
Suddha-Paramahamsasrama-Gitam
Suka-Saunaka-Kausika-Mukha Pitam (Piba Re)
22. Sivoham Sivoham Sivoham Soham

Sivoham Sivoham Sivoham Soham
Satchidananda Svarupoham.
23. Chidanandarupah Sivoham Sivoham

24. Arunachala Siva Arunachala Siva Arunachala Siva Aruna Siva,

Arunachala Siva Arunachala Siva Arunachala Siva Aruna Siva.
136
eS:v:st::ð*:m:ö
eS:v:ac:ün:m:Î
! eS:v:ay: n:m:H ! kp:al:in:ð n:m:H
! m:hðÃ:ray: n:m:H ! kam:ary:ð n:m:H
! S:öB:v:ð n:m:H ! AnD:kas:Ørs:Üdn:ay: n:m:H
! ep:n:aekt:ð n:m:H ! g:¤aD:ray: n:m:H
! S:eS:S:ðK:ray: n:m:H ! l:l:aXax:ay: n:m:H
! v:am:dðv:ay: n:m:H ! kal:kal:y: n:m:H
! ev:-p:ax:ay: n:m:H ! káp:aen:D:y:ð n:m:H
! kp:edün:ð n:m:H ! B:im:ay: n:m:H
! n:il:l::ðeht:ay: n:m:H ! p:rS:Øhst:ay: n:m:H
! S:ökray: n:m:H ! m:àg:p:aN:y:ð n:m:H
! S:Ül:p:aN:y:ð n:m:H ! j:XaD:ray: n:m:H
! K:XÏv:aöeg:n:ð n:m:H ! kól:as:v:aes:n:ð n:m:H
! ev:\N:Øv:ll:B:ay: n:m:H ! kv:ec:n:ð n:m:H
! eS:ep:ev:Äay: n:m:H ! kY:ðray: n:m:H
! Aemb:kan:aT:ay: n:m:H ! e*:p:Ørant:kay: n:m:H
! Â:ikNYay: n:m:H ! v:à\:aökay: n:m:H
! B:Vt:v:ts:l:ay: n:m:H ! v:à\:B:a-Zay: n:m:H
! B:v:ay: n:m:H ! B:sm::ðdÏ D:Üel:t:ev:g:Òhay: n:m:H
! S:v:aüy: n:m:H ! e*:l::ðkñS:ay: n:m:H
! ug:Òay: n:m:H ! eS:et:kNYay: n:m:H
137
SIVA STOTRAS
! *:y:im:Üt:üy:ð n:m:H ! p:Ørarat:y:ð n:m:H
! s:v:üway: n:m:H ! B:g:v:t:ð n:m:H
! p:rm:atm:n:ð n:m:H ! hry:ð n:m:H
! s::ðm:s:Üy:aüegn:l::ðc:n:ay: n:m:H ! s:am:e)y:ay: n:m:H
! hev:\:ð n:m:H ! sv:rm:y:ay: n:m:H
! y:wm:y:ay: n:m:H ! )m:T:aeD:p:ay: n:m:H
! s::ðm:ay: n:m:H ! m:àty:ØWj:y:ay: n:m:H
! p:Wc:v:V*:ay: n:m:H ! s:Üxm:t:n:v:ð n:m:H
! s:daeS:v:ay: n:m:H ! j:g:¾Ðy:aep:n:ð n:m:H
! ev:Ã:ðÃ:ray: n:m:H ! j:g:·Ûrv:ð n:m:H
! v:irB:dÓay: n:m:H ! vy::ðm:kñS:ay: n:m:H
! g:N:n:aT:ay: n:m:H ! m:has:ðn:j:n:kay: n:m:H
! )j:ap:t:y:ð n:m:H ! c:a,ev:#m:ay: n:m:H
! ehrNy:rðt:s:ð n:m:H ! ,dÓay: n:m:H
! dÙD:ü\:ay: n:m:H ! B:Üt:p:t:y:ð n:m:H
! eg:riS:ay: n:m:H ! sT:aN:v:ð n:m:H
! eg:erS:ay: n:m:H ! Aehb:Øü¿y:ay: n:m:H
! An:G:ay: n:m:H ! edg:öb:ray: n:m:H
! B:Øj:¤B:Ü\:N:ay: n:m:H ! AÄm:Üt:üy:ð n:m:H
! B:g:aüy: n:m:H ! An:ðkatm:n:ð n:m:H
! eg:erD:nv:n:ð n:m:H ! S:Ø¹ev:g:Òhay: n:m:H
! káe¶:v:as:s:ð n:m:H ! S:aÃ:t:ay: n:m:H
138
! K:NRp:rS:v:ð n:m:H ! B:g:n:ð*:eB:dð n:m:H
! Aj:ay: n:m:H ! Avy:Vt:ay: n:m:H
! p:aS:ev:m::ðc:kay: n:m:H ! eS:v:ae)y:ay: n:m:H
! m:àRay: n:m:H ! An:iÃ:ray: n:m:H
! p:S:Øp:t:y:ð n:m:H ! s:h+p:dð n:m:H
! dðv:ay: n:m:H ! s:ae¶v:kay: n:m:H
! Avy:y:ay: n:m:H ! Ap:v:g:ü)day: n:m:H
! s:h+ax:ay: n:m:H ! An:nt:ay: n:m:H
! p:Ü\:döt:eB:dð n:m:H ! t:arkay: n:m:H
! Avy:g:Òay: n:m:H ! p:rm:ðÃ:ray: n:m:H
! dx:aDv:rhray: n:m:H ! eg:ere)y:ay: n:m:H
! hray: n:m:H ! m:hadðv:ay: n:m:H
÷ivastotramaü
÷ivàrcanam
OM ÷ivàya namaþ OM ÷ålapàõaye namaþ
OM mahe÷varàya namaþ OM khañvàügine namaþ
OM ÷aübhave namaþ OM viùõuvallabhàya namaþ
OM pinàkite namaþ OM ÷ipiviùñàya namaþ
OM ÷a÷i÷ekharàya namaþ OM ambikànàthàya namaþ
OM vàmadevàya namaþ OM ÷rãkaõñhàya namaþ
OM viråpàkùàya namaþ OM bhaktavatsalàya namaþ
OM kapardine namaþ OM bhavàya namaþ
OM nãlalohitàya namaþ OM ÷arvàya namaþ
OM ÷aükaràya namaþ OM ugràya namaþ
139
SIVA STOTRAS
OM kapàlãne namaþ OM yaj¤amayàya namaþ
OM kàmàraye namaþ OM somàya namaþ
OM andhakàsurasådanàya namaþ OM pa¤cavaktràya namaþ
OM gaïgàdharàya namaþ OM sadà÷ivàya namaþ
OM lalàñàkùàya namaþ OM vi÷ve÷varàya namaþ
OM kàlakàlaya namaþ OM vãrabhadràya namaþ
OM kçpànidhaye namaþ OM gaõanàthàya namaþ
OM bhãmàya namaþ OM prajàpataye namaþ
OM para÷uhastàya namaþ OM hiraõyaretase namaþ
OM mçgapàõaye namaþ OM durdhaùàya namaþ
OM jañàdharàya namaþ OM girã÷àya namaþ
OM kailàsavàsine namaþ OM giri÷àya namaþ
OM kavacine namaþ OM anaghàya namaþ
OM kañhoràya namaþ OM bhujaïgabhåùaõàya namaþ
OM tripuràntakàya namaþ OM bhargàya namaþ
OM vçùàükàya namaþ OM giridhanvane namaþ
OM vçùabhàråóhàya namaþ OM kçttivàsase namaþ
OM bhasmod dhålitavigrahàya namaþ OM puràràtaye namaþ
OM triloke÷àya namaþ OM bhagavate namaþ
OM ÷itikaõñhàya namaþ OM haraye namaþ
OM trayãmårtaye namaþ OM sàmapriyàya namaþ
OM sarvaj¤àya namaþ OM svaramayàya namaþ
OM paramàtmane namaþ OM pramathàdhipàya namaþ
OM somasåryàgnilocanàya namaþ OM mçtyu¤jayàya namaþ
OM haviùe namaþ OM såkùmatanave namaþ
OM jagadvyàpine namaþ OM devàya namaþ
140
OM jagadgurave namaþ OM avyayàya namaþ
OM vyomake÷àya namaþ OM sahasràkùàya namaþ
OM mahàsenajanakàya namaþ OM påùadaütabhide namaþ
OM càruvikramàya namaþ OM avyagràya namaþ
OM rudràya namaþ OM dakùàdhvaraharàya namaþ
OM bhåtapataye namaþ OM haràya namaþ
OM sthàõave namaþ OM bhaganetrabhide namaþ
OM ahirbudhnyàya namaþ OM avyaktàya namaþ
OM digaübaràya namaþ OM ÷ivàpriyàya namaþ
OM aùñamårtaye namaþ OM anã÷varàya namaþ
OM anekàtmane namaþ OM sahasrapade namaþ
OM ÷uddhavigrahàya namaþ OM sàttvikàya namaþ
OM ÷à÷vatàya namaþ OM apavargapradàya namaþ
OM khaõóapara÷ave namaþ OM anantàya namaþ
OM ajàya namaþ OM tàrakàya namaþ
OM pà÷avimocakàya namaþ OM parame÷varàya namaþ
OM mçóàya namaþ OM giripriyàya namaþ
OM pa÷upataye namaþ OM mahàdevàya namaþ
141
SIVA STOTRAS
dðvy:c:ün:m:Î
! A:edS:Vty:ò n:m:H ! es:¹Ðy:ò n:m:H
! m:hadðvy:ò n:m:H ! m:Üty:òü n:m:H
! Aemb:kay:ò n:m:H ! s:v:ües:e¹)day:ò n:m:H
! p:rm:ðÃ:y:òü n:m:H ! m:n*:m:Üty:òü n:m:H
! IÃ:y:òü n:m:H ! m:hakaly:ò n:m:H
! An:òÃ:y:òü n:m:H ! s:v:üm:Üet:üsv:-ep:Ny:ò n:m:H
! y::ðeg:ny:ò n:m:H ! v:ðdm:Üty:òü n:m:H
! s:v:üB:Üt:ðÃ:y:òü n:m:H ! v:ðdB:Üty:ò n:m:H
! j:y:ay:ò n:m:H ! v:ðdant:ay:ò n:m:H
! ev:j:y:ay:ò n:m:H ! B:g:v:ty:ò n:m:H
! j:y:nty:ò n:m:H ! r:òdÓay:ò n:m:H
! S:aöB:vy:ò n:m:H ! m:ha-p:ay:ò n:m:H
! S:anty:ò n:m:H ! m:ham:ay:ay:ò n:m:H
! b:ÒaÉÐy:ò n:m:H ! ,dÓsv:-ep:Ny:ò n:m:H
! b:ÒÉaNRD:aerNy:ò n:m:H ! n:aray:Ny:ò n:m:H
! m:ahðÃ:y:òü n:m:H ! n:ares:öÊò n:m:H
! l::ðkrex:Ny:ò n:m:H ! n:ag:y:w:ðp:v:iet:ny:ò n:m:H
! dÙg:aüy:ò n:m:H ! S:£c:#g:daD:aerNy:ò n:m:H
! dÙg:üp:aray:ò n:m:H ! j:Xam:ØkÙXS::ðeB:ny:ò n:m:H
! B:Vt:ec:nt:am:Ny:ò n:m:H ! A)m:aN:ay:ò n:m:H
! m:àty:ò n:m:H ! )m:aN:ay:ò n:m:H
142
! A:edm:Dy:av:s:an:ay:ò n:m:H ! s:v:üjy::ðet:ssv:-ep:Ny:ò n:m:H
! p:ØNy:day:ò n:m:H ! s:h+m:Üty:òü n:m:H
! p:ØNy::ðp:c:aerny:ò n:m:H ! S:v:aüNy:ò n:m:H
! p:ØNy:kity:òü n:m:H ! s:Üy:üm:Üet:üsv:-ep:Ny:ò n:m:H
! st:Øt:ay:ò n:m:H ! A:y:Øl:üxmy:ò n:m:H
! ev:S:al:axy:ò n:m:H ! s:v:ül:xm:i)day:ò n:m:H
! g:mB:iray:ò n:m:H ! ev:c:x:N:ay:ò n:m:H
! -p:aenv:t:ay:ò n:m:H ! x:iraN:üv:v:aes:ny:ò n:m:H
! kal:l:ajy:ò n:m:H ! v:ag:iÃ:y:òü n:m:H
! An:lp:es:¹Ðy:ò n:m:H ! v:aeVs:¹Ðy:ò n:m:H
! km:l:ay:ò n:m:H ! Awan:ag::ðc:ray:ò n:m:H
! p:¼v:aes:ny:ò n:m:H ! b:l:ay:ò n:m:H
! m:has:rsv:ty:ò n:m:H ! p:rm:kly:aNy:ò n:m:H
! n:m:Hes:¹Ðy:ò n:m:H ! B:an:Øm:NRl:v:aes:ny:ò n:m:H
! m:n::ðy::ðeg:ny:ò n:m:H ! Avy:Vt:ay:ò n:m:H
! c:öRm:ØNRc:aerNy:ò n:m:H ! vy:Vt:-p:ay:ò n:m:H
! dðv:dan:v:v:aes:ny:ò n:m:H ! An:nt:ay:ò n:m:H
! vy:v:haerNy:ò n:m:H ! c:ndÓay:ò n:m:H
! An:G:ay:ò n:m:H ! c:ndÓm:NRl:v:aes:ny:ò n:m:H
! B:ð\:jy::ðet:\:ð n:m:H ! c:ndÓm:NRl:m:eNRt:ay:ò n:m:H
! p:röjy::ðet:\:ð n:m:H ! m:at:öeg:ny:ò n:m:H
! A:tm:jy::ðet:\:ð n:m:H ! p:rm:an:nday:ò n:m:H
143
SIVA STOTRAS
! eS:v:ay:ò n:m:H ! m:hal:xmy:ò n:m:H
! Ap:raej:t:ay:ò n:m:H ! G::ð\:v:ty:ò n:m:H
! wan:)apt:ò n:m:H ! daerdÓÐy:haerNy:ò n:m:H
! wan:v:ty:ò n:m:H ! eS:v:t:ðj::ðm:ØKy:ò n:m:H
! wan:m:Üty:òü n:m:H ! ev:\N:Øv:ll:B:ay:ò n:m:H
! kl:av:ty:ò n:m:H ! kñS:ev:B:Üe\:t:ay:ò n:m:H
! Sm:S:an:v:aes:ny:ò n:m:H ! kÝm:aüy:ò n:m:H
! m:a*:ð n:m:H ! m:eh\:as:ØrG:aet:ny:ò n:m:H
! p:rm:kelp:ny:ò n:m:H ! um:ay:ò n:m:H
! s:v:ürx:ay:ò n:m:H ! S:aöky:òü n:m:H
! B:òrvy:ò n:m:H ! m:hakanty:ò n:m:H
devyarcanam
OM àdi÷aktyai namaþ OM ÷àübhavyai namaþ
OM mahàdevyai namaþ OM ÷àntyai namaþ
OM ambikàyai namaþ OM bràhmyai namaþ
OM parame÷varyai namaþ OM brahmàõóadhàriõyai namaþ
OM ã÷varyai namaþ OM màhe÷varyai namaþ
OM anai÷varyai namaþ OM lokarakùiõyai namaþ
OM yoginyai namaþ OM durgàyai namaþ
OM sarvabhåte÷varyai namaþ OM durgapàràyai namaþ
OM jayàyai namaþ OM bhaktacintàmaõyai namaþ
OM vijayàyai namaþ OM mçtyai namaþ
OM jayantyai namaþ OM siddhyai namaþ
144
OM mårtyai namaþ OM vi÷àlàkùyai namaþ
OM sarvasiddhipradàyai namaþ OM gambhãràyai namaþ
OM mantramårtyai namaþ OM råpànvitàyai namaþ
OM mahàkàlyai namaþ OM kàlalàjyai namaþ
OM sarvamårtisvaråpiõyai namaþ OM analpasiddhyai namaþ
OM vedamårtyai namaþ OM kamalàyai namaþ
OM vedabhåtyai namaþ OM padmavàsinyai namaþ
OM vedàntàyai namaþ OM mahàsarasvatyai namaþ
OM bhagavatyai namaþ OM namaþsiddhyai namaþ
OM raudràyai namaþ OM manoyoginyai namaþ
OM mahàråpàyai namaþ OM caüóamuõóacàriõyai namaþ
OM mahàmàyàyai namaþ OM devadànavavàsinyai namaþ
OM rudrasvaråpiõyai namaþ OM vyavahàriõyai namaþ
OM nàràyaõyai namaþ OM anaghàyai namaþ
OM nàrasiühyai namaþ OM bheùajyotiùe namaþ
OM nàgayaj¤opavãtinyai namaþ OM paraüjyotiùe namaþ
OM ÷aïkhacakragadàdhàriõyai namaþ OM àtmajyotiùe namaþ
OM jañàmukuña÷obhinyai namaþ OM sarvajyotissvaråpiõyai namaþ
OM apramàõàyai namaþ OM sahasramårtyai namaþ
OM pramàõàyai namaþ OM ÷arvàõyai namaþ
OM àdimadhyàvasànàyai namaþ OM såryamårtisvaråpiõyai namaþ
OM puõyadàyai namaþ OM àyurlakùmyai namaþ
OM puõyopacàrinyai namaþ OM sarvalakùmãpradàyai namaþ
OM puõyakãrtyai namaþ OM vicakùaõàyai namaþ
OM stutàyai namaþ OM kùãràrõavavàsinyai namaþ
OM vàgã÷varyai namaþ OM j¤ànamårtyai namaþ
145
SIVA STOTRAS
OM vàksiddhyai namaþ OM kalàvatyai namaþ
OM aj¤ànàgocaràyai namaþ OM ÷ma÷ànavàsinyai namaþ
OM balàyai namaþ OM màtre namaþ
OM paramakalyàõyai namaþ OM paramakalpinyai namaþ
OM bhànumaõóalavàsinyai namaþ OM sarvarakùàyai namaþ
OM avyaktàyai namaþ OM bhairavyai namaþ
OM vyaktaråpàyai namaþ OM mahàlakùmyai namaþ
OM anantàyai namaþ OM ghoùavatyai namaþ
OM candràyai namaþ OM dàridryahàriõyai namaþ
OM candramaõóalavàsinyai namaþ OM ÷ivatejomukhyai namaþ
OM candramaõóalamaõóitàyai namaþ OM viùõuvallabhàyai namaþ
OM màtaüginyai namaþ OM ke÷avibhåùitàyai namaþ
OM paramànandàyai namaþ OM kårmàyai namaþ
OM ÷ivàyai namaþ OM mahiùàsuraghàtinyai namaþ
OM aparàjitàyai namaþ OM umàyai namaþ
OM j¤ànapràptai namaþ OM ÷àükaryai namaþ
OM j¤ànavatyai namaþ OM mahàkàntyai namaþ
AT: eS:v:n:iraj:n:m:Î
atha ÷ivanãràjanam
herH ! n:m::ð|stv:n:nt:ay: s:h+m:Üt:üy:ð s:h+p:adaex:eS:r:ð,b:ahv:ð .

s:h+n:amn:ð p:Ø,\:ay: S:aÃ:t:ð s:h+k:ðeXy:Øg:D:aerN:ð n:m:H .. 1..
hariþ OM namo.astvanantàya sahasramårtaye sahasrapàdàkùi÷irorubàhave |

sahasranàmne puruùàya ÷à÷vate sahasrakoñiyugadhàriõe namaþ || 1 ||
! j:y: g:¤aD:r hr eS:v: j:y: eg:erj:aD:iS:, eS:v: j:y: g::òrin:aT: .
146
tv:ö m:aö p:al:y: en:ty:ö tv:ö m:aö p:al:y: S:mB::ð káp:y:a j:g:diS: .
! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 2..
OM jaya gaïgàdhara hara ÷iva jaya girijàdhã÷a, ÷iva jaya gaurãnàtha |
tvaü màü pàlaya nityaü tvaü màü pàlaya ÷ambho kçpayà jagadã÷a |
OM hara hara hara mahàdeva || 2 ||
kól:as:ð eg:ereS:K:rð klp:dÓÚm:ev:ep:n:ð eS:v: klp:dÓÚm:ev:ep:n:ð g:ØWj:et:

m:D:Økrp:ØWj:ð g:ØWj:et: m:D:Økrp:ØWj:ð g:hn:ð. k:ðekl:H kÝj:et: K:ðl:et:
hös:av:el:l:el:t:a eS:v: hös:av:el:l:el:t:a rc:y:et: kl:akl:ap:ö rc:y:et:
kl:akl:ap:ö n:àty:et: m:Øds:eht:a. ! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 3..
kailàse giri÷ikhare kalpadrumavipine ÷iva kalpadrumavipine gu¤jati
madhukarapu¤je gu¤jati madhukarapu¤je gahane | kokilaþ kåjati khelati
haüsàvalilalità ÷iva haüsàvalilalità racayati kalàkalàpaü racayati
kalàkalàpaü nçtyati mudasahità | OM hara hara hara mahàdeva || 3 ||
t:sm:úll:el:t:s:ØdðS:ð S:al:am:eN:rec:t:a, eS:v: S:al:am:ep:rec:t:a, t:nm:Dy:ð

hren:kXð t:nm:Dy:ð hren:kXð g::òri m:Øds:eht:a. #iRaö rc:y:et: B:Ü\:aö
reWj:t:en:j:m:iS:ö, eS:v: reWj:t:en:j:m:iS:ö EndÓaedks:Ørs:ðev:t:
b:ÒÉaedks:Ørs:ðev:t: )N:m:et: t:ð S:i\:üm:Î. ! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 4..
tasma.Nllalitasude÷e ÷àlàmaõiracità, ÷iva ÷àlàmapiracità, tanmadhye
haranikañe tanmadhye haranikañe gaurã mudasahità | krãóàü racayati
bhåùàü ra¤jitanijamã÷aü, ÷iva ra¤jitanijamã÷aü indràdikasurasevita
brahmàdikasurasevita praõamati te ÷ãrùam |
ev:b:ØD:v:D:Üb:ühÚ n:àty:et: Ædy:ð m:Øds:eht:a, eS:v: Ædy:ð m:Øds:eht:a,

ekÀrg:an:ö kÙ,t:ð ekÀrg:an:ö kÙ,t:ð s:pt:sv:rs:eht:a. eD:n:kt: T:ò T:ò
eD:n:kt: m:àdög:ö v:ady:t:ð, eS:v: m:àdög:ö v:ady:t:ð, Vv:N:Vv:p:l:el:t:a v:ðN:Øö
Vv:N:Vv:p:l:el:t:a v:ðN:Øö m:D:Ørö n:ady:t:ð. ! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 5..
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SIVA STOTRAS
vibudhavadhårbahu nçtyati hçdaye mudasahità, ÷iva hçdaye mudasahità,

kinnaragànaü kurute kinnaragànaü kurute saptasvarasahità | dhinakata thai
thai dhinakata mçdaügaü vàdayate, ÷iva mçdaügaü vàdayate,
kvaõakvapalalità veõuü kvaõakvapalalità veõuü madhuraü nàdayate |
kN: kN:-c:rN:ð rc:y:et: n:Üp:Ørm:Øjjv:el:t:ö, eS:v: n:Üp:Ørm:Øjjv:el:t:ö

c:#akarö B:Òm:y:et: c:#akarö B:Òm:y:et: kÙ,t:ð t:aö eD:kt:am:Î. t:aö t:aö l:Øp:-c:Øp:
t:al:ö n:ady:t:ð, eS:v: t:al:ö n:ady:t:ð A¤ÛÅa¤Ûel:n:adö A¤ÛÅa¤Ûel:n:adö l:asy:kt:aö
kÙ,t:ð. ! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 6..
kaõa kaõa-caraõe racayati nåpuramujjvalitaü, ÷iva nåpuramujjvalitaü
cakràkàraü bhramayati cakràkàraü bhramayati kurute tàü dhikatàm | tàü
tàü lupa-cupa tàlaü nàdayate, ÷iva tàlaü nàdayate aïguùñhàïgulinàdaü
aïguùñhàïgulinàdaü làsyakatàü kurute |
kp:Øür½Øet:g::òrö p:Wc:an:n:s:eht:ö, eS:v: p:Wc:an:n:s:eht:ö, e*:n:y:n: S:S:D:rm::òl:ð

e*:n:y:n: S:S:D:rm::òl:ð ev:\:D:rkNYy:Øt:ö. s:Øndrj:Xakl:ap:ö p:av:ky:Øt: Pal:ö,
eS:v: p:av:kS:eS:Pal:ö, Rm:,e*:S:Ül:ep:n:akö Rm:,e*:S:Ül:ep:n:akö
KrD:àt:n:àkp:al:m:Î. ! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 7..
karpuradyutigauraü pa¤cànanasahitaü, ÷iva pa¤cànanasahitaü, trinayana
÷a÷adharamaule trinayana ÷a÷adharamaule viùadharakaõñhayutaü |
sundarajañàkalàpaü pàvakayuta phàlaü, ÷iva pàvaka÷a÷iphàlaü,
óamarutri÷ålapinàkaü óamarutri÷ålapinàkaü karadhçtançkapàlam |
S:£n:n:adö kátv:a J:ll:er n:ady:t:ð, eS:v: J:ll:er n:ady:t:ð n:iraj:y:t:ð b:ÒÉa

n:iraj:y:t:ð ev:\N:Øv:ðüd-?c:ö p:Yt:ð. Eet: m:àdÙc:rN:s:r:ðj:ö Æed km:l:ð D:àtv:a,
eS:v: Æed km:l:ð D:àtv:a Av:l::ðky:et: m:hðS:ö eS:v:l::ðky:et: s:ØrðS:ö, IS:ö
AeB:n:tv:a. ! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 8..
÷aïkhananàdaü kçtvà jhallari nàdayate, ÷iva jhallari nàdayate nãràjayate
brahmà nãràjayate viùõurveda-çcaü pañhate | iti mçducaraõasarojaü hçdi
148
kamale dhçtvà, ÷iva hçdi kamale dhçtvà avalokayati mahe÷aü ÷ivalokayati

sure÷aü, ã÷aü abhinatvà | OM hara hara hara mahàdeva || 8 ||
,NRò rc:y:et: m:al:aö p:Àg:m:Øp:v:it:ö eS:v: p:Àg:m:Øp:v:it:ö v:am:ev:B:ag:ð eg:erj:a

v:am:ev:B:ag:ð g::òri -p:ö Aet:l:el:t:m:Î. s:Øndrs:kl:S:rirð kát:B:sm:aB:rN:ö eS:v:
kát: B:sm:aB:rN:ö Eet: v:à\:B:Dv:j:-p:ö hr-eS:v:-S:¢r--p:ö t:ap:*:y:hrN:m:Î. !
hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 9..
ruõóai racayati màlàü pannagamupavãtaü ÷iva pannagamupavãtaü
vàmavibhàge girijà vàmavibhàge gaurã råpaü atilalitam |
sundarasakala÷arãre kçtabhasmàbharaõaü ÷iva kçta bhasmàbharaõaü iti
vçùabhadhvajaråpaü hara-÷iva-÷aïkara-råpaü tàpatrayaharaõam |
Dy:an:ö A:ret:s:m:y:ð Ædy:ð Eet: kátv:a eS:v: Ædy:ð Eet: kátv:a ram:ö
e*:j:Xan:aT:ö S:öB:Øö e*:j:Xan:aT:ö IS:ö AeB:n:tv:a. s:ög:it:m:ðv:ö )et:edn:p:Yn:ö y:H
kÙ,t:ð eS:v: p:Yn:ö y:H kÙ,t:ð eS:v:s:ay:Øjy:ö g:cCet: hrs:ay:Øjy:ö g:cCet:
B:Vty:a y:H S:àN:Øt:ð. ! hr hr hr m:hadðv: .. 10..
dhyànaü àratisamaye hçdaye iti kçtvà ÷iva hçdaye iti kçtvà ràmaü
trijañànàthaü ÷aübhuü trijañànàthaü ã÷aü abhinatvà | saügãtamevaü
pratidinapañhanaü yaþ kurute ÷iva pañhanaü yaþ kurute ÷ivasàyujyaü
gacchati harasàyujyaü gacchati bhaktyà yaþ ÷çõute | OM hara hara hara
mahàdeva || 10 ||
j:y: g:¤aD:r hr eS:v: j:y: eg:erj:aD:iS: eS:v: j:y: g::òrin:aT:. tv:ö m:aö
p:al:y: en:ty:ö tv:ö m:aö p:al:y: S:mB::ð káp:y:a j:g:diS:. ! hr hr hr
m:hadðv: .. 11..
jaya gaïgàdhara hara ÷iva jaya girijàdhã÷a ÷iva jaya gaurãnàtha | tvaü màü
pàlaya nityaü tvaü màü pàlaya ÷ambho kçpayà jagadã÷a | OM hara hara
hara mahàdeva || 11 ||
Eet: Â:ieS:v:n:iraj:n:ö s:mp:ÜN:üm:Î.
iti ÷rã÷ivanãràjanaü sampårõam. |
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SIVA STOTRAS
AT: eS:v:Dy:an:av:el:H
atha ÷ivadhyànàvaliþ
! v:ndð dðv:m:Øm:ap:et:ö s:Ørg:Ø,ö v:ndð j:g:tkarN:ö

V:ndð p:Àg:B:Ü\:N:ö m:àg:D:rö v:ndð p:S:Ün:aö p:et:m:Î .
v:ndð s:Üy:üS:S:a¢v:eÈn:y:n:ö v:ndð m:ØkÙnde)y:ö
v:ndð B:Vt:j:n:aÂ:y:ö c: v:rdö v:ndð eS:v:ö S:¢rm:Î .. 1..
OM vande devamumàpatiü suraguruü vande jagatkàraõaü
vande pannagabhåùaõaü mçgadharaü vande pa÷ånàü patim |
vande sårya÷a÷àïkavahninayanaü vande mukundapriyaü
vande bhaktajanà÷rayaü ca varadaü vande ÷ivaü ÷aïkaram || 1 ||
S:ant:ö p:¼as:n:sT:ö S:S:D:rm:ØkÙXö p:Wc:v:V*:ö e*:n:ð*:ö

S:Ül:ö v:$ö c: K:RÏg:ö p:rS:Øm:B:y:dö dex:N:a¤ñ v:hnt:m:Î .
n:ag:ö p:aS:ö c: G:NXaö Rm:,ks:eht:aö c:a¢ÛS:ö v:am:B:ag:ð
N:an:al:¢ardipt:ö sPeXkm:eN:en:B:ö p:av:üt:iS:ö n:m:aem: .. 2..
÷àntaü padmàsanasthaü ÷a÷adharamukuñaü pa¤cavaktraü trinetraü
÷ålaü vajraü ca khaógaü para÷umabhayadaü dakùiõàïge vahantam |
nàgaü pà÷aü ca ghaõñàü óamarukasahitàü càïku÷aü vàmabhàge
nànàlaïkàradãptaü sphañikamaõinibhaü pàrvatã÷aü namàmi || 2 ||
kp:Üürg::òrö k,N:av:t:arö s:ös:ars:arö B:Øj:g:ðndÓharm:Î .

s:da v:s:nt:ö Ædy:arev:ndð B:v:ö B:v:an:is:eht:ö n:m:aem: .. 3..
karpåragauraü karuõàvatàraü saüsàrasàraü bhujagendrahàram |

sadà vasantaü hçdayàravinde bhavaü bhavànãsahitaü namàmi || 3 ||
Aes:t:eg:ers:m:ö sy:at:Î kjj:l:ö es:nD:Øp:a*:ð

s:Ørt:,v:rS:aK:a l:ðK:n:i p:*:m:Øv:iü .
el:K:et: y:ed g:àhitv:a S:arda s:v:ükal:ö
150
t:dep: t:v: g:ØN:an:am:iS: p:arö n: y:aet: .. 4..
asitagirisamaü syàt kajjalaü sindhupàtre

surataruvara÷àkhà lekhanã patramurvã |
likhati yadi gçhãtvà ÷àradà sarvakàlaü
tadapi tava guõànàmã÷a pàraü na yàti || 4 ||
tv:m:ðv: m:at:a c: ep:t:a tv:m:ðv:

tv:m:ðv: b:nD:ØÁ: s:K:a tv:m:ðv: .
tv:m:ðv: ev:½adÓev:N:ö tv:m:ðv:
tv:m:ðv: s:v:üö m:m: dðv: dðv: .. 5..
tvameva màtà ca pità tvameva
tvameva bandhu÷ca sakhà tvameva |
tvameva vidyàdraviõaü tvameva
tvameva sarvaü mama deva deva || 5 ||
krc:rN:kát:ö v:aVkay:j:ö km:üj:ö v:a

Â:v:N:n:y:n:j:ö v:a m:an:s:öv:a|p:raD:m:Î .
ev:eht:m:ev:eht:ö v:a s:v:üm:ðt:t:Î x:m:sv:
j:y: j:y: k,N:abD:ð Â:i m:hadðv: S:mB::ð .. 6..
karacaraõakçtaü vàkkàyajaü karmajaü và
÷ravaõanayanajaü và mànasaüvà.aparàdham |
vihitamavihitaü và sarvametat kùamasva
jaya jaya karuõàbdhe ÷rã mahàdeva ÷ambho || 6 ||
c:ndÓ:ð»aes:t:S:ðK:rð sm:rhrð g:¤aD:rð

S:¢rð s:p:òüB:Üüe\:t:kNYkN:üev:v:rð n:ð*::ðtT:v:òÃ:an:rð .
dent:tv:Vkát:s:Øndraöb:rD:rð *:òl::ðVy:s:arð hrð
m::ðx:aT:üö kÙ, ec:¶:v:àe¶:m:c:l:am:ny:òst:Ø ekö km:üeB:H .. 7..
candrodbhàsita÷ekhare smarahare gaïgàdhare
151
SIVA STOTRAS
÷aïkare sarpairbhåùitakaõñhakarõavivare netrotthavai÷vànare |

dantitvakkçtasundaràübaradhare trailokyasàre hare
mokùàrthaü kuru cittavçttimacalàmanyaistu kiü karmabhiþ || 7 ||
Eet: eS:v:Dy:an:av:el:H s:mp:ÜN:aü
iti ÷ivadhyànàvaliþ sampårõà
AT: eS:v:p:Ø\p:aWj:el:H
atha ÷ivapuùpà¤jaliþ
her ! y:wðn: y:wm:y:j:nt: dðv:aH t:aen: D:m:aüeN: )T:m:a ny:as:n:Î .

t:ð h n:akö m:ehm:an:H s:c:nt:ð y:*: p:Üv:ðü s:aDy:aH s:ent: dðv:aH ..
hari OM yaj¤ena yaj¤amayajanta devàþ tàni dharmàõi prathamà nyàsan |
te ha nàkaü mahimànaþ sacante yatra pårve sàdhyàþ santi devàþ ||
! raj:aeD:raj:ay: )s:Ê s:aehn:ð . n:m::ð v:y:ö v:òÂ:v:N:ay: kÙm:ühð .

s: m:ð kam:an:Î kam:kam:ay: m:Êö . kam:ðÃ:r:ð v:òÂ:v:N::ð ddat:Ø . kÙb:ðray:
v:òÂ:v:N:ay: m:haraj:ay: n:m:H ..
OM ràjàdhiràjàya prasahya sàhine | namo vayaü vai÷ravaõàya kurmahe |
sa me kàmàn kàmakàmàya mahyaü | kàme÷varo vai÷ravaõo dadàtu |
kuberàya vai÷ravaõàya mahàràjàya namaþ ||
! ev:Ã:t:xc:x:Ø,t: ev:Ã:t::ð m:ØK:ö ev:Ã:t::ð b:ahÚ,t: ev:Ã:t:sp:at:Î .

s:öb:ahÚBy:aö D:m:et: s:mp:t:*:ò½aüv:aB:Üm:i j:n:y:ndðv: OkH ..
OM vi÷vatakùcakùuruta vi÷vato mukhaü vi÷vato bàhuruta vi÷vataspàt |
saübàhubhyàü dhamati sampatatrairdyàvàbhåmã janayandeva ekaþ ||
! t:tp:Ø,\:ay: ev:¼hð m:hadðv:ay: D:im:eh t:À:ð ,dÓH )c::ðdy:at:Î ..

n:an:as:Øg:nD:p:Ø\p:aeN: y:T:akal::ð»v:aen: c: m:y:a|Æt:aen: edvy:aen: g:àhaN:
p:rm:ðÃ:r ..
OM tatpuruùàya vidmahe mahàdevàya dhãmahi tanno rudraþ pracodayàt ||
152
nànàsugandhapuùpàõi yathàkàlodbhavàni ca mayà.ahçtàni divyàni gçhàõa

parame÷vara ||
Eet: eS:v:p:Ø\p:aWj:el:H s:mp:ÜN:aü ..
iti ÷ivapuùpà¤jaliþ sampårõà ||
eS:v:m:ehmn:H s*::ð*:m:Î
÷ivamahimnaþ strotram
! Â:ig:N:ðS:ay: n:m:H
OM ÷rãgaõe÷àya namaþ
her ! g:j:an:n:ö B:Üt:g:N:aeD:s:ðev:t:ö

kep:tT:j:mb:ÜPl:s:arB:x:N:m:Î .
um:as:Øt:ö S::ðkev:n:aS:karN:ö
n:m:aem: ev:Gn:ðÃ:rp:adp:ökj:m:Î ..
hari OM gajànanaü bhåtagaõàdhisevitaü
kapitthajambåphalasàrabhakùaõam |
umàsutaü ÷okavinà÷akàraõaü
namàmi vighne÷varapàdapaükajam ||
m:ehmn:H p:arö t:ð p:rm:ev:dÙ\::ð y:½s:dáS:i

st:Øet:b:ÒüÉadin:am:ep: t:dv:s:Àastv:ey: eg:rH .
AT:a|v:acy:H s:v:üH sv:m:et:p:erN:am:av:eD: g:àN:n:Î
m:m:apy:ð\:H st::ð*:ð hr en:rp:v:adH p:erkrH .. 1..
mahimnaþ pàraü te paramaviduùo yadyasadç÷ã
stutirbrahmàdãnàmapi tadavasannàstvayi giraþ |
athà.avàcyaþ sarvaþ svamatipariõàmàvadhi gçõan
mamàpyeùaþ stotre hara nirapavàdaþ parikaraþ || 1 ||
At:it:H p:nT:an:ö t:v: c: m:ehm:a v:a¨n:s:y::ð-
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SIVA STOTRAS
rt:dÏvy:av:àty:a y:ö c:ekt:m:eB:D:¶:ð Â:Øet:rep: .

s: ksy: st::ðt:vy:H ket:ev:D:g:ØN:H ksy: ev:\:y:H
p:dð tv:v:aüc:in:ð p:t:et: n: m:n:H ksy: n: v:c:H .. 2..
atãtaþ panthànaü tava ca mahimà vàïmanasayo-
ratadvyàvçtyà yaü cakitamabhidhatte ÷rutirapi |
sa kasya stotavyaþ katividhaguõaþ kasya viùayaþ
pade tvarvàcãne patati na manaþ kasya na vacaþ || 2 ||
m:D:ØsPit:a v:ac:H p:rm:m:m:àt:ö en:em:üt:v:t:-

st:v: b:ÒÉn:Î ekö v:ag:ep: s:Ørg:Ør:ðev:üsm:y:p:dm:Î .
m:m: tv:ðt:aö v:aN:iö g:ØN:kT:n:p:ØNy:ðn: B:v:t:H
p:Øn:am:ity:T:ðü|esm:np:Ørm:T:n: b:Øe¹vy:üv:es:t:a .. 3..
madhusphãtà vàcaþ paramamamçtaü nirmitavata-
stava brahman kiü vàgapi suragurorvismayapadam |
mama tvetàü vàõãü guõakathanapuõyena bhavataþ
punàmãtyarthe.asminpuramathana buddhirvyavasità || 3 ||
t:v:òÃ:y:üö y:¶:jj:g:dÙdy:rx:a)l:y:kát:Î
*:y:iv:st:Ø vy:st:ö et:s:à\:Ø g:ØN:eB:Àas:Ø t:n:Ø\:Ø .
AB:vy:an:am:esm:n:Î v:rd rm:N:iy:am:rm:N:iö
ev:hnt:Øö vy:a#:ðS:iö ev:dD:t: Ehòkñ j:ReD:y:H .. 4..
tavai÷varyaü yattajjagadudayarakùàpralayakçt
trayãvastu vyastaü tisçùu guõabhinnàsu tanuùu |
abhavyànàmasmin varada ramaõãyàmaramaõãü
vihantuü vyàkro÷ãü vidadhata ihaike jaóadhiyaþ || 4 ||
ekm:ihH ekö kay:H s: K:l:Ø ekm:Øp:ay:es*:B:Øv:n:ö

ekm:aD:ar:ð D:at:a s:àj:et: ekm:Øp:adan: Eet: c: .
At:Vy:óýÃ:y:ðü tv:yy:n:v:s:rdÙHsT::ð ht:eD:y:H
kÙt:k:ðý|y:ö kaöeÁ:nm:ØK:ry:et: m::ðhay: j:g:t:H .. 5..
154
kimãhaþ kiü kàyaþ sa khalu kimupàyastribhuvanaü

kimàdhàro dhàtà sçjati kimupàdàna iti ca |
atarkyai÷varye tvayyanavasaraduþstho hatadhiyaþ
kutarko.ayaü kàü÷cinmukharayati mohàya jagataþ || 5 ||
Aj:nm:an::ð l::ðkaH ekm:v:y:v:v:nt::ð|ep: j:g:t:a-

m:eD:Åat:arö ekö B:v:ev:eD:rn:adáty: B:v:et: .
An:iS::ð v:a kÙy:aü»Øv:n:j:n:n:ð kH p:erkr:ð
y:t::ð m:ndastv:aö )ty:m:rv:r s:öS:ðrt: Em:ð .. 6..
ajanmàno lokàþ kimavayavavanto.api jagatà-
madhiùñhàtàraü kiü bhavavidhiranàdçtya bhavati |
anã÷o và kuryàdbhuvanajanane kaþ parikaro
yato mandàstvàü pratyamaravara saü÷erata ime || 6 ||
*:y:i s:aöKy:ö y::ðg:H p:S:Øp:et:m:t:ö v:ò\N:v:em:et:

)eB:Àð )sT:an:ð p:rem:dm:dH p:Ty:em:et: c: .
,c:in:aö v:òec:*y:adáj:ØkÙeXl:n:an:ap:T:j:Ø\:aö
n:àN:am:ðk:ð g:my:stv:m:es: p:y:s:am:N:üv: Ev: .. 7..
trayã sàükhyaü yogaþ pa÷upatimataü vaiùõavamiti
prabhinne prasthàne paramidamadaþ pathyamiti ca |
rucãnàü vaicitryàdçjukuñilanànàpathajuùàü
nçõàmeko gamyastvamasi payasàmarõava iva || 7 ||
m:h:ðx:H K:XÏv:a¤ö p:rS:Ørej:n:ö B:sm: PeN:n:H

kp:al:ö c:ðt:iy:¶:v: v:rd t:n*::ðp:krN:m:Î .
s:Ørast:aö t:am:àe¹ö ev:dD:et: B:v:dÏ B:ÒÜ)eN:eht:aö
n: eh sv:atm:aram:ö ev:\:y:m:àg:t:à\N:a B:Òm:y:et: .. 8..
mahokùaþ khañvàïgaü para÷urajinaü bhasma phaõinaþ
kapàlaü cetãyattava varada tantropakaraõam |
suràstàü tàmçddhiü vidadhati bhavad bhråpraõihitàü
na hi svàtmàràmaü viùayamçgatçùõà bhramayati || 8 ||
155
SIVA STOTRAS
D:ÒØv:ö keÁ:ts:v:üö s:kl:m:p:rstv:D:ÒØv:em:dö

p:r:ð D:Ò:òvy:aD:Ò:òvy:ð j:g:et: g:det: vy:st:ev:\:y:ð .
s:m:st:ð|py:ðt:esm:np:Ørm:T:n: t:òev:üesm:t: Ev:
st:Øv:eWj:Ëðem: tv:aö n: K:l:Ø n:n:Ø D:àÄa m:ØK:rt:a .. 9..
dhruvaü ka÷citsarvaü sakalamaparastvadhruvamidaü
paro dhrauvyàdhrauvye jagati gadati vyastaviùaye |
samaste.apyetasminpuramathana tairvismita iva
stuva¤jihremi tvàü na khalu nanu dhçùñà mukharatà || 9 ||
t:v:òÃ:y:üö y:tn:a½dÙp:er ev:ereWc:hüerrD:H

p:ercCð¶:Øö y:at:av:en:l:m:n:l:sknD:v:p:Ø\:H .
t:t::ð B:eVt:Â:¹aB:rg:Ø,g:àN:dÏ By:aö eg:erS: y:t:Î
sv:y:ö t:sT:ð t:aBy:aö t:v: ekm:n:Øv:àe¶:n:ü Pl:et: .. 10..
tavai÷varyaü yatnàdyadupari viri¤cirhariradhaþ
paricchettuü yàtàvanilamanalaskandhavapuùaþ |
tato bhakti÷raddhàbharagurugçõad bhyàü giri÷a yat
svayaü tasthe tàbhyàü tava kimanuvçttirna phalati || 10 ||
Ay:tn:adap:a½ e*:B:Øv:n:m:v:òrvy:et:krö
dS:asy::ð y:dÏ b:ahÞn:B:àt: rN:kNRÝp:rv:S:an:Î .
eS:rHp:¼Â:ðN:irec:t:c:rN:amB::ð,hb:l:ðH
esT:ray:astv:»Vt:ðes*:p:Ørhr ev:sPÝej:üt:em:dm:Î .. 11..
ayatnàdàpàdya tribhuvanamavairavyatikaraü
da÷àsyo yad bàhånabhçta raõakaõóåparava÷àn |
÷iraþpadma÷reõãracitacaraõàmbhoruhabaleþ
sthiràyàstvadbhaktestripurahara visphårjitamidam || 11 ||
Am:Ø\y: tv:ts:ðv:as:m:eD:g:t:s:arö B:Øj:v:n:ö

b:l:atkól:as:ð|ep: tv:deD:v:s:t::ò ev:#m:y:t:H .
156
Al:By:a p:at:al:ð|py:l:s:c:el:t:aög:ØÅeS:res:
)et:Åa tv:yy:as:idÏ D:ÒØv:m:Øp:ec:t::ð m:ØÊet: K:l:H .. 12..
amuùya tvatsevàsamadhigatasàraü bhujavanaü
balàtkailàse.api tvadadhivasatau vikramayataþ |
alabhyà pàtàle.apyalasacalitàüguùñha÷irasi
pratiùñhà tvayyàsãd dhruvamupacito muhyati khalaþ || 12 ||
y:dáe¹ö s:Ø*:amN::ð v:rd p:rm::ðcc:òrep: s:t:i-

m:D:Á:#ñ b:aN:H p:erj:n:ev:D:ðy:es*:B:Øv:n:H .
n: t:ecc:*:ö t:esm:nv:erv:es:t:er tv:cc:rN:y::ð-
n:ü ksy:a uÀty:ò B:v:et: eS:rs:stv:yy:v:n:et:H .. 13..
yadçddhiü sutràmõo varada paramoccairapi satã-
madha÷cakre bàõaþ parijanavidheyastribhuvanaþ |
na taccitraü tasminvarivasitari tvaccaraõayo-
rna kasyà unnatyai bhavati ÷irasastvayyavanatiþ || 13 ||
AkaNRb:ÒÉaNRx:y:c:ekt:dðv:as:Ørkáp:a-
ev:D:ðy:sy:as:i½es*:n:y:n: ev:\:ö s:öÆt:v:t:H .
s: klm:a\:H kNYð t:v: n: kÙ,t:ð n: eÂ:y:m:h:ð
ev:kar:ð|ep: Sl:aGy::ð B:Øv:n:B:y:B:¤vy:s:en:n:H .. 14..
akàõóabrahmàõóakùayacakitadevàsurakçpà-
vidheyasyàsãdyastrinayana viùaü saühçtavataþ |
sa kalmàùaþ kaõñhe tava na kurute na ÷riyamaho
vikàro.api ÷làghyo bhuvanabhayabhaïgavyasaninaþ || 14 ||
Aes:¹aT:aü n:òv: Vv:ec:dep: s:dðv:as:Ørn:rð

en:v:t:ünt:ð en:ty:ö j:g:et: j:ey:n::ð y:sy: ev:eS:K:aH .
s: p:Sy:ÀiS: tv:aem:t:rs:Ørs:aD:arN:m:B:Üt:Î-
sm:rH sm:t:üvy:atm:a n: eh v:eS:\:Ø p:Ty:H p:erB:v:H .. 15..
asiddhàrthà naiva kvacidapi sadevàsuranare
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SIVA STOTRAS
nivartante nityaü jagati jayino yasya vi÷ikhàþ |

sa pa÷yannã÷a tvàmitarasurasàdhàraõamabhåt-
smaraþ smartavyàtmà na hi va÷iùu pathyaþ paribhavaþ || 15 ||
m:hi p:adaG:at:adÏ v:Òj:et: s:hs:a s:öS:y:p:dö

p:dö ev:\N::ðB:Òaümy:dÏ B:Øj:p:erG:,gN:g:Òhg:N:m:Î .
m:ØhÚ½:òüd:òüsTy:ö y:aty:en:B:àt:j:Xat:aeRt:t:Xa
j:g:dÓx:ay:ò tv:ö n:Xes: n:n:Ø v:am:òv: ev:B:Øt:a .. 16..
mahã pàdàghàtàd vrajati sahasà saü÷ayapadaü
padaü viùõorbhràmyad bhujaparigharugõagrahagaõam |
muhurdyaurdausthyaü yàtyanibhçtajañàtàóitatañà
jagadrakùàyai tvaü nañasi nanu vàmaiva vibhutà || 16 ||
ev:y:dÏ vy:ap:i t:arag:N:g:ØeN:t:Pñn::ðdÏ g:m:,ec:H

)v:ah:ð v:araö y:H p:à\:t:l:G:ØdáÄH eS:res: t:ð .
j:g:dÏ¾ip:akarö j:l:eD:v:l:y:ö t:ðn: kát:em:-
ty:n:ðn:òv::ðÀðy:ö D:àt:m:ehm: edvy:ö t:v: v:p:ØH .. 17..
viyad vyàpã tàràgaõaguõitaphenod gamaruciþ
pravàho vàràü yaþ pçùatalaghudçùñaþ ÷irasi te |
jagaddvãpàkàraü jaladhivalayaü tena kçtami-
tyanenaivonneyaü dhçtamahima divyaü tava vapuþ || 17 ||
rT:H x::ðN:i y:nt:a S:t:D:àet:rg:ðndÓ:ð D:n:ØrT::ð

rT:a¤ñ c:ndÓak:òý rT:c:rN:p:aeN:H S:r Eet: .
edD:x::ðst:ð k:ð|y:ö e*:p:Ørt:àN:m:aRmb:rev:eD:-
ev:üD:ðy:òH #iRnty::ð n: K:l:Ø p:rt:n*:aH )B:ØeD:y:H .. 18..
rathaþ kùoõã yantà ÷atadhçtiragendro dhanuratho
rathàïge candràrkau rathacaraõapàõiþ ÷ara iti |
didhakùoste ko.ayaü tripuratçõamàóambaravidhi-
rvidheyaiþ krãóantyo na khalu paratantràþ prabhudhiyaþ || 18 ||
158
herst:ð s:ah+ö km:l:b:el:m:aD:ay: p:dy::ð-

y:üdðk:ðn:ð t:esm:eÀj:m:ØdhrÀð*:km:l:m:Î .
g:t::ð B:Vty:ØdÓðkH p:erN:et:m:s::ò c:#v:p:Ø\:a
*:y:aN:aö rx:ay:ò e*:p:Ørhr j:ag:et:ü j:g:t:am:Î .. 19..
hariste sàhasraü kamalabalimàdhàya padayo-
ryadekone tasminnijamudaharannetrakamalam |
gato bhaktyudrekaþ pariõatimasau cakravapuùà
trayàõàü rakùàyai tripurahara jàgarti jagatàm || 19 ||
#t::ò s:Øpt:ð j:ag:Ò¶v:m:es: Pl:y::ðg:ð #t:Øm:t:aö

Vv: km:ü )Dv:st:ö Pl:et: p:Ø,\:araD:n:m:àt:ð .
At:stv:aö s:m)ðxy: #t:Ø\:Ø Pl:dan:)et:B:Øv:ö
Â:Øt::ò Â:¹aö b:dÏ Dv:a dáZp:erkrH km:üs:Ø j:n:H .. 20..
kratau supte jàgrattvamasi phalayoge kratumatàü
kva karma pradhvastaü phalati puruùàràdhanamçte |
atastvàü samprekùya kratuùu phaladànapratibhuvaü
÷rutau ÷raddhàü bad dhvà dçóhaparikaraþ karmasu janaþ || 20 ||
e#y:adx::ð dx:H #t:Øp:et:rD:iS:st:n:ØB:àt:a-

m:à\:iN:am:ae¶v:üjy:ö S:rN:d s:dsy:aH s:Ørg:N:aH .
#t:ØB:ÒöS:stv:¶:H #t:ØPl:ev:D:an:vy:s:en:n::ð
D:ÒØv:ö kt:ØüH Â:¹aev:D:Ørm:eB:c:aray: eh m:K:aH .. 21..
kriyàdakùo dakùaþ kratupatiradhã÷astanubhçtà-
mçùãõàmàrttvijyaü ÷araõada sadasyàþ suragaõàþ |
kratubhraü÷astvattaþ kratuphalavidhànavyasanino
dhruvaü kartuþ ÷raddhàvidhuramabhicàràya hi makhàþ || 21 ||
)j:an:aT:ö n:aT: )s:B:m:eB:kö sv:aö dÙeht:rö

g:t:ö r:ðehdÏ B:Üt:aö errm:ey:\:Øm:à\y:sy: v:p:Ø\:a .
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SIVA STOTRAS
D:n:Ø\p:aN:ðy:aüt:ö edv:m:ep: s:p:*:akát:m:m:Øö

*:s:nt:ö t:ð|½aep: ty:j:et: n: m:àg:vy:aD:rB:s:H .. 22..
prajànàthaü nàtha prasabhamabhikaü svàü duhitaraü
gataü rohid bhåtàü riramayiùumçùyasya vapuùà |
dhanuùpàõeryàtaü divamapi sapatràkçtamamuü
trasantaü te.adyàpi tyajati na mçgavyàdharabhasaþ || 22 ||
sv:l:av:Ny:aS:ös:a D:àt:D:n:Ø\:m:Èay: t:àN:v:t:Î

p:ØrH pl:ØÄö dáÄÏv:a p:Ørm:T:n: p:Ø\p:ay:ØD:m:ep: .
y:ed s*:òN:ö dòv:i y:m:en:rt: dðhaD:üG:Xn:a-
dv:òet: tv:am:¹a b:t: v:rd m:ØgD:a y:Øv:t:y:H .. 23..
svalàvaõyà÷aüsà dhçtadhanuùamahnàya tçõavat
puraþ pluùñaü dçùñvà puramathana puùpàyudhamapi |
yadi straiõaü daivã yamanirata dehàrdhaghañanà-
davaiti tvàmaddhà bata varada mugdhà yuvatayaþ || 23 ||
Sm:S:an:ð\v:a#iRa sm:rhr ep:S:ac:aH s:hc:ra-

eÁ:t:aB:sm:al:ðp:H +g:ep: n:àkr:ðXip:erkrH .
Am:¤ly:ö S:il:ö t:v: B:v:t:Ø n:am:òv:m:eK:l:ö
t:T:aep: sm:t:àüN:aö v:rd p:rm:ö m:¤l:m:es: .. 24..
÷ma÷àneùvàkrãóà smarahara pi÷àcàþ sahacarà-
÷citàbhasmàlepaþ sragapi nçkaroñãparikaraþ |
amaïgalyaü ÷ãlaü tava bhavatu nàmaivamakhilaü
tathàpi smartçõàü varada paramaü maïgalamasi || 24 ||
m:n:H )ty:kÏec:¶:ð s:ev:D:m:v:D:ay:a¶:m:,t:H

)Æ\y:dÓ:ðm:aN:H )m:ds:el:l::ðts:öeg:t:dáS:H .
y:dal::ðVy:aÌadö Ëd Ev: en:m:jy:am:àt:m:y:ð
dD:ty:nt:st:¶v:ö ekm:ep: y:em:n:st:etkl: B:v:an:Î .. 25..
manaþ pratyakcitte savidhamavadhàyàttamarutaþ
160
prahçùyadromàõaþ pramadasalilotsaügitadç÷aþ |
yadàlokyàhlàdaü hrada iva nimajyàmçtamaye
dadhatyantastattvaü kimapi yaminastatkila bhavàn || 25 ||
tv:m:kýstv:ö s::ðm:stv:m:es: p:v:n:stv:ö hÚt:v:h-

tv:m:ap:stv:ö vy::ðm: tv:m:Ø D:reN:ratm:a tv:em:et: c: .
p:erecCÀam:ðv:ö tv:ey: p:erN:t:a eb:B:Òt:Ø eg:rö
n: ev:¼st:¶:¶v:ö v:y:em:h t:Ø y:¶v:ö n: B:v:es: .. 26..
tvamarkastvaü somastvamasi pavanastvaü hutavaha-
tvamàpastvaü vyoma tvamu dharaõiràtmà tvamiti ca |
paricchinnàmevaü tvayi pariõatà bibhratu giraü
na vidmastattattvaü vayamiha tu yattvaü na bhavasi || 26 ||
*:y:iö et:+:ð v:à¶:ies*:B:Øv:n:m:T::ð *:in:ep: s:Øra-

n:kara½òv:üN:òües*:eB:reB:dD:¶:iN:üev:káet: .
t:Øriy:ö t:ð D:am: Dv:en:eB:rv:,nD:an:m:N:ØeB:H
s:m:st:ö vy:st:ö tv:aö S:rN:d g:àN:aty::ðem:et: p:dm:Î .. 27..
trayãü tisro vçttãstribhuvanamatho trãnapi surà-
nakàràdyairvarõaistribhirabhidadhattãrõavikçti |
turãyaü te dhàma dhvanibhiravarundhànamaõubhiþ
samastaü vyastaü tvàü ÷araõada gçõàtyomiti padam || 27 ||
B:v:H S:v::ðü ,dÓH p:S:Øp:et:rT::ðg:ÒH s:hm:haö-

st:T:a B:im:ðS:an:aev:et: y:deB:D:an:aÄkem:dm:Î .
Am:Øe\m:n)ty:ðkö )ev:c:ret: dðv: Â:Øet:rep:
e)y:ay:asm:ò D:amn:ð )eN:eht:n:m:sy::ð|esm: B:v:t:ð .. 28..
bhavaþ ÷arvo rudraþ pa÷upatirathograþ sahamahàü-
stathà bhãme÷ànàviti yadabhidhànàùñakamidam |
amuùminpratyekaü pravicarati deva ÷rutirapi
priyàyàsmai dhàmne praõihitanamasyo.asmi bhavate || 28 ||
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SIVA STOTRAS
n:m::ð n:ðedÅay: e)y:dv: dev:Åay: c: n:m::ð

n:m:H x::ðedÅay: sm:rhr m:ehÅay: c: n:m:H .
n:m::ð v:e\:üÅay: e*:n:y:n: y:ev:Åay: c: n:m::ð
n:m:H s:v:üsm:ò t:ð t:eddem:et: s:v:aüy: c: n:m:H .. 29..
namo nediùñhàya priyadava daviùñhàya ca namo
namaþ kùodiùñhàya smarahara mahiùñhàya ca namaþ |
namo varùiùñhàya trinayana yaviùñhàya ca namo
namaþ sarvasmai te tadidamiti sarvàya ca namaþ || 29 ||
b:hl:rj:s:ð ev:Ã::ðtp:¶::ò B:v:ay: n:m::ð n:m:H

)b:l:t:m:s:ð t:ts:öharð hray: n:m::ð n:m:H .
j:n:s:ØK:kát:ð s:¶v::ðedÓVt::ò m:àRay: n:m::ð n:m:H
)m:hes: p:dð en:s*:òg:ØNy:ð eS:v:ay: n:m::ð n:m:H .. 30..
bahalarajase vi÷votpattau bhavàya namo namaþ
prabalatamase tatsaühàre haràya namo namaþ |
janasukhakçte sattvodriktau mçóàya namo namaþ
pramahasi pade nistraiguõye ÷ivàya namo namaþ || 30 ||
káS:p:erN:et:c:ðt:H Vl:ðS:v:Sy:ö Vv: c:ðdö

Vv: c: t:v: g:ØN:s:im::ðll:e¥n:i S:Ã:dáe¹H .
Eet: c:ekt:m:m:ndikáty: m:aö B:eVt:raD:a-
¾rd c:rN:y::ðst:ð v:aVy:p:Ø\p::ðp:harm:Î .. 31..
kç÷apariõaticetaþ kle÷ava÷yaü kva cedaü
kva ca tava guõasãmollaïghinã ÷a÷vadçddhiþ |
iti cakitamamandãkçtya màü bhaktiràdhà-
dvarada caraõayoste vàkyapuùpopahàram || 31 ||
Aes:t:eg:ers:m:ö sy:atkjj:l:ö es:nD:Øp:a*:ð

s:Ørt:,v:rS:aK:a l:ðK:n:i p:*:m:Øv:iü .
162
el:K:et: y:ed g:àhitv:a S:arda s:v:ükal:ö

t:dep: t:v: g:ØN:an:am:iS: p:arö n: y:aet: .. 32..
asitagirisamaü syàtkajjalaü sindhupàtre
surataruvara÷àkhà lekhanã patramurvã |
likhati yadi gçhãtvà ÷àradà sarvakàlaü
tadapi tava guõànàmã÷a pàraü na yàti || 32 ||
As:Ørs:Ørm:Øn:indÓòrec:üt:sy:ðndÙm::òl:ð-
g:ÒüeT:t:g:ØN:m:ehmn::ð en:g:ØüN:sy:ðÃ:rsy: .
s:kl:g:N:v:erÅH p:Ø\p:dnt:aeB:D:an::ð
,ec:rm:l:G:Øv:à¶:òH st::ð*:m:ðt:cc:kar .. 33..
asurasuramunãndrairarcitasyendumaule-
rgrathitaguõamahimno nirguõasye÷varasya |
sakalagaõavariùñhaþ puùpadantàbhidhàno
ruciramalaghuvçttaiþ stotrametaccakàra || 33 ||
Ahrhrn:v:½ö D:Üj:üXðH st::ð*:m:ðt:t:Î

p:Yet: p:rm:B:Vty:a S:Ø¹ec:¶:H p:Øm:an:Î y:H .
s: B:v:et: eS:v:l::ðkñ ,dÓt:Øly:st:T:a|*:
)c:Ørt:rD:n:ay:ØH p:Ø*:v:an:Î kiet:üm:aöÁ: .. 34..
aharaharanavadyaü dhårjañeþ stotrametat
pañhati paramabhaktyà ÷uddhacittaþ pumàn yaþ |
sa bhavati ÷ivaloke rudratulyastathà.atra
pracurataradhanàyuþ putravàn kãrtimàü÷ca || 34 ||
dix:a dan:ö t:p:st:iT:üö wan:ö y:ag:aedkaH e#y:aH .

m:ehmn:Hst:v:p:aYsy: kl:aö n:ahüent: \::ðRS:im:Î .. 35..
dãkùà dànaü tapastãrthaü j¤ànaü yàgàdikàþ kriyàþ |
mahimnaþstavapàñhasya kalàü nàrhanti ùoóa÷ãm || 35 ||
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SIVA STOTRAS
A:s:m:apt:em:dö st::ð*:ö p:ØNy:ö g:nD:v:üB:ae\:t:ö .

An::òp:my:ö m:n::ðhaer eS:v:m:iÃ:rv:N:ün:m:Î .. 36..
àsamàptamidaü stotraü puõyaü gandharvabhàùitaü |
anaupamyaü manohàri ÷ivamã÷varavarõanam || 36 ||
m:hðS:aÀap:r:ð dðv::ð m:ehmn::ð n:ap:ra st:Øet:H .

AG::ðraÀap:r:ð m:n*::ð n:aest: t:¶v:ö g:Ør:ðH p:rm:Î .. 37..
mahe÷ànnàparo devo mahimno nàparà stutiþ |
aghorànnàparo mantro nàsti tattvaü guroþ param || 37 ||
kÙs:Øm:dS:n:n:am:a s:v:üg:nD:v:üraj:H
S:eS:D:rv:rm::òl:ðdðüv:dðv:sy: das:H .
s: K:l:Ø en:j:m:ehmn::ð B:ÒÄ Ov:asy: r:ð\:at:Î-
st:v:n:em:dm:ka\:iüe¸vy:edvy:ö m:ehmn:H .. 38..
kusumada÷ananàmà sarvagandharvaràjaþ
÷a÷idharavaramaulerdevadevasya dàsaþ |
sa khalu nijamahimno bhraùña evàsya roùàt-
stavanamidamakàrùãddivyadivyaü mahimnaþ || 38 ||
s:Ørv:rm:Øen:p:Üjy:ö sv:g:üm::ðx:òkhðt:Øö
p:Yet: y:ed m:n:Ø\y:H )aWj:el:n:aüny:c:ðt:aH .
v:Òj:et: eS:v:s:m:ip:ö ekÀròH st:Üy:m:an:H
st:v:n:em:dm:m::ðG:ö p:Ø\p:dnt:)N:it:m:Î .. 39..
suravaramunipåjyaü svargamokùaikahetuü
pañhati yadi manuùyaþ prà¤jalirnànyacetàþ |
vrajati ÷ivasamãpaü kinnaraiþ ståyamànaþ
stavanamidamamoghaü puùpadantapraõãtam || 39 ||
Â:ip:Ø\p:dnt:m:ØK:p:¢j:en:g:üt:ðn:
164
st::ð*:ðN: ekelb:\:hrðN: hre)y:ðN: .

kNYesT:t:ðn: p:eYt:ðn: s:m:aeht:ðn:
s:Ø)ieN:t::ð B:v:et: B:Üt:p:et:m:ühðS:H .. 40..
÷rãpuùpadantamukhapaïkajanirgatena
stotreõa kilbiùahareõa harapriyeõa |
kaõñhasthitena pañhitena samàhitena
suprãõito bhavati bhåtapatirmahe÷aþ || 40 ||
Ety:ð\:a v:a{Ïm:y:i p:Üj:a Â:im:cC¢rp:ady::ðH .

Aep:üt:a t:ðn: dðv:ðS:H )iy:t:aö m:ð s:daeS:v:H .. 41..
ityeùà vàïmayã påjà ÷rãmacchaïkarapàdayoþ |
arpità tena deve÷aþ prãyatàü me sadà÷ivaþ || 41 ||
y:dx:rp:dB:ÒÄö m:a*:ahin:ö c: y:»v:ðt:Î .

t:ts:v:üö x:my:t:aö dðv: )s:id p:rm:ðÃ:r .. 42..
yadakùarapadabhraùñaü màtràhãnaü ca yadbhavet |
tatsarvaü kùamyatàü deva prasãda parame÷vara || 42 ||
Eet: Â:ip:Ø\p:dnt:ac:ay:üev:rec:t:ö eS:v:m:ehmn:H s*::ð*:ö s:mp:ÜN:üm:Î .
iti ÷rãpuùpadantàcàryaviracitaü ÷ivamahimnaþ strotraü sampårõam ||
AT: eS:v:st:Øet:H
atha ÷ivastutiþ
! m:hadðv: eS:v: S:¢r S:mB::ð um:akant: hr e*:p:Ørarð

m:àty:ØWj:y: v:à\:B:Dv:j: S:Üel:n:Î g:¤aD:r m:àR m:dn:arð .
hr eS:v: S:¢r g::òriS:ö v:ndð g:¤aD:rm:iS:ö
,dÓö p:S:Øp:et:m:iS:an:ö kl:y:ð kaS:ip:Øern:aT:m:Î .. 1..
OM mahàdeva ÷iva ÷aïkara ÷ambho umàkànta hara tripuràre
165
SIVA STOTRAS
mçtyu¤jaya vçùabhadhvaja ÷ålin gaïgàdhara mçóa madanàre |

hara ÷iva ÷aïkara gaurã÷aü vande gaïgàdharamã÷aü
rudraü pa÷upatimã÷ànaü kalaye kà÷ãpurinàtham || 1 ||
j:y: S:mB::ð j:y: S:mB::ð eS:v: g::òriS:¢r j:y: S:mB::ð

j:y: S:mB::ð j:y: S:mB::ð eS:v: g::òriS:¢r j:y: S:mB::ð .. 2..
jaya ÷ambho jaya ÷ambho ÷iva gaurã÷aïkara jaya ÷ambho
jaya ÷ambho jaya ÷ambho ÷iva gaurã÷aïkara jaya ÷ambho || 2 ||
! n:m:H p:av:üt:ip:t:y:ð ..
OM namaþ pàrvatãpataye ||
v:ðds:ar-eS:v:st:v:H
vedasàra-÷ivastavaþ
p:S:Ün:aö p:et:ö p:ap:n:aS:ö p:rðS:ö

g:j:ðndÓsy: káe¶:ö v:s:an:ö s:rðNy:m:Î .
j:Xaj:ÜXm:Dy:ð sPÙrdÏg:aög:v:aerö
m:hadðv:m:ðkö sm:raem: sm:raerm:Î .. 1..
pa÷ånàü patiü pàpanà÷aü pare÷aü
gajendrasya kçttiü vasànaü sareõyam |
jañàjåñamadhye sphuradgàügavàriü
mahàdevamekaü smaràmi smaràrim || 1 ||
m:hðS:ö s:ØrðS:ö s:Øraraet:n:aS:ö

ev:B:Øö ev:Ã:n:aT:ö ev:B:Üty:ög:B:Ü\:m:Î .
ev:-p:ax:em:n¾kýv:eÈe*:n:ð*:ö
s:dan:ndm:iRð )B:Øö p:Wc:v:V*:m:Î .. 2..
mahe÷aü sure÷aü suràràtinà÷aü
vibhuü vi÷vanàthaü vibhåtyaügabhåùam |
166
viråpàkùamindvarkavahnitrinetraü
sadànandamãóe prabhuü pa¤cavaktram || 2 ||
eg:riS:ö g:N:ðS:ö g:l:ð n:il:v:N:üö

g:v:ðndÓaeD:-Zö g:ØN:at:it:-p:m:Î .
B:v:ö B:asv:rö B:sm:n:a B:Üe\:t:a¤ö
B:v:an:ikl:*:ö B:j:ð p:Wc:v:V*:m:Î .. 3..
girã÷aü gaõe÷aü gale nãlavarõaü
gavendràdhiråóhaü guõàtãtaråpam |
bhavaü bhàsvaraü bhasmanà bhåùitàïgaü
bhavànãkalatraü bhaje pa¤cavaktram || 3 ||
eS:v:akant: S:mB::ð S:S:a¢aD:üm::òl:ð

m:hðS:an: S:Üel:n:Î j:Xaj:ÜXD:aern:Î .
tv:m:ðk:ð j:g:dÏvy:ap:k:ð ev:Ã:-p:
)s:id )s:id )B::ð p:ÜN:ü-p: .. 4..
÷ivàkànta ÷ambho ÷a÷àïkàrdhamaule
mahe÷àna ÷ålin jañàjåñadhàrin |
tvameko jagadvyàpako vi÷varåpa
prasãda prasãda prabho pårõaråpa || 4 ||
p:ratm:an:m:ðkö j:g:dÏb:ij:m:a½ö
en:rihö en:rakarm::ð¢arv:ð½ö .
y:t::ð j:ay:t:ð p:ly:t:ð y:ðn: ev:Ã:m:Î
t:m:iS:ö B:j:ð l:iy:t:ð y:*: ev:Ã:m:Î .. 5..
paràtmànamekaü jagadbãjamàdyaü
nirãhaü niràkàramoïkàravedyaü |
yato jàyate palyate yena vi÷vam
tamã÷aü bhaje lãyate yatra vi÷vam || 5 ||
167
SIVA STOTRAS
n: B:Üem:n:ü c:ap::ð n: v:eÈn:ü v:ay:Ø-

n:ü c:akaS:m:ast:ð n: t:ndÓa n: en:dÓa .
n: g:Òi\m::ð n: S:it:ö n: dðS::ð n: v:ð\::ð
n: y:sy:aest: m:Üet:ües*:m:Üet:üö t:m:iRð .. 6..
na bhåmirna càpo na vahnirna vàyu-
rna càkà÷amàste na tandrà na nidrà |
na grãùmo na ÷ãtaü na de÷o na veùo
na yasyàsti mårtistrimårtiü tamãóe || 6 ||
Aj:ö S:aÃ:t:ö kaN:üö karN:an:aö

eS:v:ö kñv:l:ö B:as:kö B:as:kan:am:Î .
t:Øriy:ö t:m:Hp:arm:a½nt:hin:ö
)p:½ð p:rö p:av:n:ö ¾òt:hin:m:Î .. 7..
ajaü ÷à÷vataü kàrõaü kàraõànàü
÷ivaü kevalaü bhàsakaü bhàsakànàm |
turãyaü tamaþpàramàdyantahãnaü
prapadye paraü pàvanaü dvaitahãnam || 7 ||
n:m:st:ð s:m:st:ð ev:B::ð ev:Ã:m:Üt:ðü

n:m:st:ð n:m:st:ð ec:dan:ndm:Üt:ðü .
n:m:st:ð n:m:st:ð t:p::ðy::ðg:g:my:
n:m:st:ð n:m:st:ð Â:Øet:wan:g:my: .. 8..
namaste samaste vibho vi÷vamårte
namaste namaste cidànandamårte |
namaste namaste tapoyogagamya
namaste namaste ÷rutij¤ànagamya || 8 ||
)B::ð S:Ül:p:aN:ð ev:B::ð ev:Ã:n:aT:

m:hadðv: S:mB::ð m:hðS: e*:n:ð*: .
168
eS:v:akant: S:ant: sm:rarð p:Ørarð

tv:dny::ð v:rðNy::ð n: m:any::ð n: g:Ny:H .. 9..
prabho ÷ålapàõe vibho vi÷vanàtha
mahàdeva ÷ambho mahe÷a trinetra |
÷ivàkànta ÷ànta smaràre puràre
tvadanyo vareõyo na mànyo na gaõyaþ || 9 ||
S:mB::ð m:hðS: k-N:am:y: S:Ül:p:aN:ð

g::òrip:t:ð p:S:Øp:t:ð p:S:Øp:aS:n:aeS:n:Î .
kaS:ip:t:ð k,N:y:a j:g:dðt:dðk-
stv:ö höes: p:aes: ev:dD:aes: m:hðÃ:r:ð|es: .. 10 ..
÷ambho mahe÷a karåõàmaya ÷ålapàõe
gaurãpate pa÷upate pa÷upà÷anà÷in |
kà÷ãpate karuõayà jagadetadeka-
stvaü haüsi pàsi vidadhàsi mahe÷varo.asi || 10 ||
tv:¶::ð j:g:»v:et: dðv: B:v: sm:rarð

tv:yy:ðv: et:Ået: j:g:nm:àR ev:Ã:n:aT: .
tv:yy:ðv: j:cCet: l:y:ö j:g:dðt:diS:
el:¤atm:kö hr c:rac:r ev:Ã:-ep:n:Î .. 11..
tvatto jagadbhavati deva bhava smaràre
tvayyeva tiùñhati jaganmçóa vi÷vanàtha |
tvayyeva jacchati layaü jagadetadã÷a
liïgàtmakaü hara caràcara vi÷varåpin ||11 ||
Eet: Â:im:cCökrac:ay:üev:rec:t:ö
v:ðds:areS:v:st::ð*:ö s:mp:ÜN:üm:Î .
iti ÷rãmacchaükaràcàryaviracitaü
vedasàra÷ivastotraü sampårõam |
169

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LORD SIVA AND HIS WORSHIP

SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

SERVE, LOVE, GIVE,

A DIVINE LIFE SOCIETY PUBLICATION

World Wide Web (WWW) Edition: 2000

This WWW reprint is for free distribution

© The Divine Life Trust Society

—THE DIVINE LIFE SOCIETY

Om is Sat-Chit-Ananda Para-Brahman. ‘Namah Sivaya’ means ‘Prostration to Lord Siva.’

2. ! t:tp:Ø,\:ay: ev:¼hð m:hadðv:ay: D:im:eh .

3. ! *y:öb:kö y:j:am:hð s:Øg:enD:ö p:ØeÄv:D:ün:ö .

n:ag::ðndÓharay: e*:l::ðc:n:ay: B:sm:a¤rag:ay: m:hðÃ:ray: .

eS:v:ay: g::òriv:dn:arev:nds:Üy:aüy: dx:aDv:rn:aS:kay: .

y:x:sv:-p:ay: j:XaD:ray: ep:n:akhst:ay: s:n:at:n:ay: .

p:Wc:ax:rem:dö p:ØNy:ö y:H p:YðecCv:s:eÀD::ò .

!karö eb:ndÙs:öy:ØVt:ö en:ty:ö Dy:ay:ent: y::ðeg:n:H .

n:m:ent: m:Øn:y::ð dðv:a n:m:nty:ps:rs:aö g:N:aH .

m:hadðv:ö m:hatm:an:ö m:haxy:an:p:ray:N:m:Î .

eS:v:ö S:ant:ö j:g:ÀaT:ö l::ðkan:Øg:Òhkarkm:Î .

v:ahn:ö v:à\:B::ð y:sy: v:as:ØekH kNYB:Ü\:N:m:Î .

y:*: y:*: esT:t::ð dðv:H s:v:üvy:ap:i m:hðÃ:rH .

p:Wc:ax:rem:dö st::ð*:ö y:H p:YðecCv:s:eÀD::ò .

dðv:m:Øen:)v:raec:üt:el:¤ö kam:dhö k,N:akrel:¤m:Î .

dðv:g:N:aec:üt:s:ðev:t:el:¤ö B:av:òB:üeVt:eB:rðv: c: el:¤m:Î .

AÄdl::ðp:er v:ðeÄt:el:¤ö s:v:üs:m:Ø»v:karN:el:¤m:Î .

el:¤aÅkem:dö p:ØNy:ö y:H p:YðecCv:s:eÀD::ò .

Rishi Rishabha spoke to the prince:

O Visvesa, Tyagesa, Sarvesa,

O Kasi Visvanatha, Kanchinatha,

O Gauri Sankara, Gangadhara,

Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya,

Who can describe Thy glory O Hara!

Thy vehicle is the bull,

Snake is Thy ornament,

You incarnated as Dakshinamurti,

To initiate Sanaka, Sanandana,

Thy form speaks of renunciation,

You assumed the form of light,

You saved Markandeya, Manikkavasakar,

Thou art ocean of mercy,

You destroyed the Cupid,

Thy garland is strung of skulls,

Thou art Death unto death itself,

Thou art the greatest Devotee of Hari,

Lord Rama worshipped Thee alone at Ramesvar,

O Hara! O Lord! O Siva!

Make me desireless, fearless and ‘I’ less,

He who sings or repeats or hears this Sarvalinga Stava

1. Advaita, Akhanda, Akarta, Abhokta,

2. Avyakta, Ananta, Amrita, Ananda,

Immovable, without impurities, imperishable, inexhaustible,

3. Asabda, Asparsa, Arupa, Agandha,

4. Satyam, Sivam, Subham, Sundaram, Kantam,

5. Chetana, Chaitanya, Chidghana, Chinmaya,

6. Amala, Vimala, Nirmala, Achala,

7. Nitya, Nirupadhika, Niratisaya Ananda,

8. Purna, Para Brahma, Prajnana Ananda,

9. Satyam, Jnanam, Anantam, Anandam,

Sat-chit-ananda, Svayam Jyoti Prakasam,

y:: y:: esT:t::ð dðv:H s:v:üvy:ap:i m:hðÃ:rH .